Fête des Jeux d'Antan

Games of Yesteryear in an Exceptional Village

The Fête des Jeux d'Antan takes place in the exceptional setting of Sainte-Suzanne-et-Chammes, a medieval town perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Erve valley. Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Sainte-Suzanne offers an authentic and preserved backdrop, ideal for this day dedicated to traditional games and conviviality.

About Twenty Traditional Games

The principle of the festival is simple and universally unifying: to offer wooden games and fun challenges inspired by the popular traditions of yesteryear. The twenty or so games set up in the village offer a wide variety of activities:

• Skill Games: skittles, coconut shy, ring toss, palet game, and Dutch billiard
• Strength Games: tug-of-war, arm wrestling, carrying challenges
• Team Games: waiter races with trays, sack races, wacky relays
• Giant Games: giant mikado, giant checkers, oversized balance games
• Dexterity Games: marble games, wooden construction games, patience circuits

A Festival for All Ages

One of the charms of the Fête des Jeux d'Antan is its intergenerational nature. Grandparents rediscover the games of their childhood and pass them on to their grandchildren, while parents rediscover activities forgotten in favor of screens. It is a moment of authentic sharing where families come together around the simple pleasure of play.

An Authentic and Nostalgic Atmosphere

Without artifice or technology, the Fête des Jeux d'Antan cultivates an atmosphere of simplicity and nostalgia. The handcrafted wooden games, the laughter of the participants, the village fair atmosphere: everything contributes to creating a timeless moment, in harmony with the medieval heritage that surrounds the festivities.

Sainte-Suzanne, Land of Heritage and Activities

The Fête des Jeux d'Antan is part of a rich calendar of events in Sainte-Suzanne-et-Chammes, which throughout the year offers medieval activities, Middle Ages days at the castle, book fairs, and cultural events. The medieval town, with its fortress, its 17th-century castle, and its picturesque streets, is a must-visit site in Mayenne.