National Day of Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois

The National Day in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois

Each year, the town of Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois — affectionately nicknamed Ste-Gen by its inhabitants — celebrates the National Day with an original and festive formula. Rather than limiting itself to a fireworks display, the commune in Essonne offers a complete program that emphasizes conviviality, citizen participation, and collective joy.

A Republican Banquet Under the Summer Sky

The highlight of the Génovéfain festivities is the Republican Banquet organized on the esplanade du Donjon, in the heart of the town's historic center. Every year around July 13th, starting at 6 PM, residents are invited to gather for a shared outdoor meal. Tables and chairs are provided by the town to allow everyone to settle in comfortably and share a moment of conviviality with their neighbors.

This republican banquet, in the spirit of large neighborhood meals, perfectly embodies the values of republican fraternity. Everyone can bring dishes to share, and the town organizes the collection of vintage tablecloths to dress the tables with a colorful and nostalgic touch. The atmosphere is that of a large, open-air family gathering.

Giant Karaoke: An Original Tradition

One of the unique features of the National Day in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois is the giant karaoke that accompanies the republican banquet. Organized on the esplanade du Donjon, it invites all participants to sing the great classics of French and international music in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. Young and old, seasoned singers and novices, everyone is welcome to sing their favorite songs together under the stars.

This original tradition has become one of the hallmarks of the Génovéfain July 14th festivities. It symbolizes the town's commitment to offering a participatory event where residents are not just spectators but active participants in their own celebration.

Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois, Between Forest and Heritage

Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois is a town of over 36,000 inhabitants, famous far beyond its borders for its Russian cemetery, which houses the graves of many artists and personalities from the White Russian emigration of the 20th century. The town is also known for its Château du Clos, transformed into a retirement home for Russian exiles by philanthropist Dorothy Paget in 1927. This cosmopolitan past gives Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois a unique cultural dimension.

Nestled at the gates of the Sénart forest and the Beauce plain, the town benefits from a green and pleasant living environment. The National Day is experienced here as a moment of shared belonging, transcending origins and personal histories to celebrate what unites all inhabitants: the love of living together and republican values.

Activities for the Whole Family

In addition to the banquet and karaoke, the National Day in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois offers various free activities for children and families on the esplanade du Donjon. Wooden games, craft activities, stands from local associations, and live music complete the program for a festive evening from start to finish. The town ensures that every age group finds something to enjoy and fully experience this moment of collective celebration.