Fêtes Jeanne Hachette
The oldest historical festival in Beauvais since 1472
About Fêtes Jeanne Hachette
The Fêtes Jeanne Hachette are celebrated every year on the last weekend of June in Beauvais to commemorate the heroine who, with a hatchet in hand, repelled the troops of Charles the Bold during the siege of 1472. As one of the oldest historical festivals in France, this free event transforms the city center into a real medieval encampment with a market facing the cathedral, a costumed historical procession, a knightly tournament, street performances, fire-eaters, and international brass bands.
Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Fêtes Jeanne Hachette at the best price.
Sponsored link
Five centuries of commemorating Beauvaisian courage
The Fêtes Jeanne Hachette have perpetuated the memory of the Siege of Beauvais in 1472 for over five centuries. That year, the troops of Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, besieged the city. According to tradition, a woman of the people named Jeanne Laisné, nicknamed Jeanne Hachette, seized a hatchet and tore down the Burgundian banner, helping to galvanize the Beauvaisian resistance and repel the attacker.
A medieval weekend in the heart of Beauvais
Every last weekend of June, the center of Beauvais transforms into a true medieval encampment. Facing the majestic Saint-Pierre Cathedral, a medieval market brings together artisans, blacksmiths, and merchants offering period items, armor, jewelry, and local products.
The historical procession
The highlight of the festival is the grand costumed historical procession that winds through the streets of Beauvais, reenacting the events of 1472. Hundreds of extras in period costumes parade to the sound of brass bands, culminating in the appearance of Jeanne Hachette brandishing her famous weapon.
Knightly tournament and shows
The program includes a knightly tournament on Saturday evening, fire-eater performances, street entertainment by troupes of medieval jugglers, acrobats, and musicians, as well as the participation of international brass bands. The nocturnal show 'Dentelle de pierres' (Stone Lace) highlights the city's architectural heritage.
A tribute to the courage of women
The Fêtes Jeanne Hachette celebrate the courage of the women of Beauvais. Tradition dictates that it is the women who lead the procession, recalling the decisive role they played in the defense of the city. This tribute gives the festival a strong and contemporary symbolic dimension.
Fêtes Jeanne Hachette — edition 2026
554th Fêtes Jeanne Hachette in Beauvais. On the last weekend of June, Beauvais relives the year 1472 with a medieval market, costumed procession, knightly tournament, and free shows.
554th Edition — June 2026
The 554th Fêtes Jeanne Hachette will take place on the last weekend of June 2026 in Beauvais. A medieval market facing the cathedral, a costumed historical procession, a knightly tournament, fire-eaters, international brass bands, and street performances will be on the program for this new edition celebrating the courage of the women of Beauvais.
Highlights Fêtes Jeanne Hachette 2026
- 554th edition of the Fêtes Jeanne Hachette
- Last weekend of June 2026
- Free admission
Prices Fêtes Jeanne Hachette 2026
Practical information — Fêtes Jeanne Hachette
Practical Information
Location
Beauvais City Center, around Saint-Pierre Cathedral, 60000 Beauvais.
Access
By train: Beauvais station, a 10-minute walk from the city center.
By car: A16 motorway, Beauvais-Centre exit. Parking in the city center.
Prices
Free admission to all festivities.
Opening Hours
Saturday evening and all day Sunday, last weekend of June.
Contact
Association Les Amis des Fêtes Jeanne Hachette
Website: www.jeanne-hachette.fr
Accommodation
Numerous hotels, B&Bs, and gîtes are available in the town and its surroundings. The local tourist office can help you find accommodation to suit your budget and needs. It is recommended to book in advance during the festival period, as accommodations can be in high demand.
Accessibility
The organizers strive to make the festival accessible to as many people as possible. People with reduced mobility are invited to contact the organization in advance of the event to prepare their visit and benefit from the best possible reception conditions.
Families and children
The festival is suitable for families with children. Entertainment and dedicated areas are provided for the younger ones. Strollers are generally accepted on site, but it is advisable to check the access conditions for different performance venues.
Learn more
For any further information on the festival, its program, prices, and access conditions, do not hesitate to consult the official event website or contact the organizers directly. The festival's social media channels regularly provide updated news and practical information.
Preparing your visit
It is advisable to check the official festival website or its social media channels a few days before the event for the latest information on the program, schedules, and any changes. During the summer period, remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. In autumn and winter, pack warm and waterproof clothing. A site map is usually available at the festival reception to help you easily navigate between the different activities and areas.
Festival-goer photos
No photo yet. Share yours!
Share your photos
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Festival-goer reviews
No rating yet — be the first!
No review yet. Be the first!
Were you there?
Share your experience with the community
Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Fêtes Jeanne Hachette at the best price.
Sponsored link
Where does it take place — Fêtes Jeanne Hachette
Centre-ville de Beauvais
Centre-ville, 60000 Beauvais