Imperial Weekend of Compiègne

In the Time of the Imperial Series

Every year in May, the Imperial Palace of Compiègne and the Château de Pierrefonds plunge back into the lavish atmosphere of the Second Empire. The Imperial Weekend, titled "The Pierrefonds-les-Bains Series", invites the public to discover history through the invitation of the imperial couple, in a festive and elegant ambiance.

The Series: A Slice of History

Under the Second Empire, Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie gathered the cream of aristocratic, diplomatic, cultural, and governmental society in Compiègne each autumn for stays called the "Series". These sumptuous receptions included excursions to the Château de Pierrefonds in the company of architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. The Imperial Weekend revives this tradition.

Activities and Shows

The program offers varied activities for all ages: a military bivouac in the castle park, costumed visits of the imperial apartments, Second Empire dance initiations, a chamber music concert with musicians performing the repertoire of the era, and meet-and-greets with characters from the imperial court, embodied by the dancers of Carnet de Bals.

The Imperial Ball

The highlight of the weekend, the imperial ball, takes place in the Salle des Gardes of the Château de Pierrefonds. Waltzes, mazurkas, and quadrilles spin costumed dancers in a sumptuous setting restored by Viollet-le-Duc.

Court Picnic

The court picnic invites visitors to settle in the castle gardens for an outdoor lunch in the spirit of imperial garden parties. A convivial and relaxed way to extend the historical immersion.

Two Exceptional Sites

The Imperial Palace of Compiègne, Napoleon III's favorite residence, and the Château de Pierrefonds, a masterpiece by Viollet-le-Duc, provide an exceptional heritage setting for this event. Both sites, managed by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux, offer a unique journey through time.