Fête de Neuilly-sur-Seine

Neuilly-sur-Seine: A Town of History and Prestige

Neuilly-sur-Seine (92200) is one of the most prestigious municipalities in France. Bordered to the north by the Seine, to the east by the Bois de Boulogne, and bordering the 17th arrondissement of Paris, it combines luxury residences, embassies, major companies, and a remarkable cultural and associative life. Its festive history is particularly rich and ancient.

The Legendary Fête à Neu-Neu

The Fête de Neuilly, affectionately known as the Fête à Neu-Neu, is one of the most famous popular fairs in the history of the Parisian suburbs. Created by an imperial decree from Napoleon I on June 10, 1815, at the request of Father Jean-François Delabordère, then mayor of Neuilly, it was held annually in late June and early July along the Avenue de Neuilly — now Avenue Charles-de-Gaulle — from Porte Maillot to Pont de Neuilly. For over a century, it was one of the most frequented fairs in the Paris region, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to enjoy the rides, fairground stalls, attractions, and the incomparable popular atmosphere.

Its last edition was held in 1935, and in 1936, the widening of the Avenue de Neuilly sounded the death knell for this great popular tradition, which disappeared in favor of road modernization. But the memory of the Fête à Neu-Neu remains vivid in the collective memory of Neuilly and in the town's archives.

Current Festivities in Neuilly

Today, Neuilly-sur-Seine organizes a program of annual celebrations that perpetuate the town's festive spirit, even if their form has evolved over time. The municipality offers a series of cultural, sporting, and popular events each year that bring residents together.

Highlights of the Festive Year in Neuilly

• Fête de la Musique (June): Free concerts in the town's parks and public spaces
• July 14th: National festivities with entertainment and illuminations
• Summer Markets and Events: Neighborhood events organized throughout the summer
• Cultural Season: Theater, concerts, exhibitions at the Neuilly Cultural Center
• Sporting Events: Competitions and sporting events at municipal facilities

Neuilly, a Town of Culture and Entertainment

Neuilly-sur-Seine has a dense cultural and associative fabric. The town hosts numerous art galleries, cultural associations, and regular events that liven up local life. Its cultural agenda, available on the official town website, offers exhibitions, concerts, conferences, and sporting events throughout the year, testifying to the town's vitality.

The Bois de Boulogne, a Natural Space for Festivals

To the east of Neuilly lies the Bois de Boulogne, one of Paris's green lungs, which is a privileged space for leisure and relaxation for the residents of Neuilly. Some festive and sporting events take place near this vast natural area, combining celebration with nature in a spirit reminiscent of the great fairground traditions of yesteryear.