Fête de Presles

Presles celebrates summer between forest and river

Presles is a village in the Val-d'Oise located in the north of the department, between the forest of Carnelle and the valley of the Oise. This village of about three thousand five hundred inhabitants benefits from an exceptional natural environment: the Carnelle national forest, with its two thousand five hundred hectares of oaks and beeches, constitutes a remarkable natural space accessible from the village. Every summer, Presles enlivens its communal festival, one of the most anticipated events of the year by its inhabitants.

Summer activities for everyone

The Fête de Presles offers a program of activities accessible to all generations. For children, carousels and games, face painting workshops, treasure hunts in the municipal park, and magic shows create unforgettable memories. For adults, the pétanque tournament, skill games, and gastronomic stands offer entertainment and treats. An artisanal market or a flea market allows visitors to browse and discover local creations. The evening concert, followed by a popular ball animated by an orchestra or a DJ, concludes each day of the festival in joy and conviviality.

The forest of Carnelle as a natural setting

The close proximity of the Carnelle national forest is one of Presles' major assets. This forest, managed by the National Forestry Office, is a natural area of great ecological value, home to deer, roe deer, wild boar, and remarkable birdlife. Guided nature outings led by volunteer naturalists can be offered during the festival to introduce inhabitants and visitors to the riches of this natural space. Forest treasure hunts for children allow the younger ones to explore the edge of the woods while having fun. This natural and ecological dimension is increasingly integrated into the program of village festivals, in line with the environmental concerns of our time.

Presles and its heritage

Presles has interesting historical heritage that deserves to be highlighted during the festival. The Saint-Pierre church, a Romanesque and Gothic building of harmonious proportions, is the symbolic heart of the village. Old houses with limestone facades bear witness to the agricultural and artisanal past of the commune. The Château de Mézery, a former converted noble residence, recalls the importance of Presles as a seigniorial fief in the Ancien Régime. Guided tours of the village and its church, offered by the local heritage association during the festival, allow inhabitants and visitors to better understand the history of this beautiful village in the Val-d'Oise.

Practical information

By car: Presles is accessible via the D4 from L'Isle-Adam or via the D9 from Luzarches. Parking available in the village.

By public transport: Bus from L'Isle-Adam — Parmain train station (Transilien line H).

Free admission for activities. Meals and ball may be charged.