Nature and live performance festival in the Lyons forest
Forêts en Scène is a festival organized by the National Forestry Office (ONF) to celebrate the International Day of Forests. In the Lyons-la-Forêt state forest, the largest beech forest in France, the festival offers free activities combining nature discovery, biodiversity treasure hunts, forest walks, demonstrations of forestry professions, and outdoor well-being moments. This spring event raises awareness among young and old about the essential role of forests and foresters, in an exceptional natural setting in the heart of the Eure region.
Each year in March, to celebrate the International Day of Forests on March 21st, the National Forestry Office (ONF) organizes the Forêts en Scène festival throughout France. In Normandy, the Lyons-la-Forêt state forest, spanning over 10,000 hectares and considered the largest beech forest in Europe, provides a prime setting for this exceptional event.
The festival offers a range of free activities designed for all audiences. The Biodiversity Rally, organized in partnership with the Lyons Andelle Tourist Office, invites families to explore the Lyons-la-Forêt arboretum through a fun and educational treasure hunt. Children enthusiastically participate in nature workshops, such as decorating wooden owls with elements found in the forest, combining creativity and environmental awareness.
The program includes guided walks to discover the flora and fauna of this remarkable forest, demonstrations of forestry professions that reveal the daily work of ONF agents, as well as clean forest operations in partnership with local authorities. Moments of well-being in nature, such as forest therapy or meditation sessions, complete this varied program.
The Lyons state forest is a jewel of Normandy's natural heritage. Its centuries-old beech trees, majestic avenues, and remarkable biodiversity make it a unique place to raise public awareness about the preservation of forest ecosystems. The village of Lyons-la-Forêt, classified among the most beautiful villages in France, offers a picturesque setting with its half-timbered houses and medieval market hall, extending the visit beyond the forest.
Forêts en Scène is part of an awareness initiative led by the ONF and its partners. The festival highlights the essential role of forests in combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and promoting public well-being. By opening the doors of the state forest to the general public, the event creates a precious link between citizens and their natural heritage, in a spirit of sharing and discovery accessible to all.
The Forêts en Scène festival returns from March 18th to 29th, 2026, for the International Day of Forests. In the Lyons-la-Forêt state forest, free activities await families: treasure hunts, nature walks, creative workshops, and discovery of forestry professions.
For the 2026 edition, the Forêts en Scène festival takes place from March 18th to 29th across France. In the Lyons-la-Forêt state forest, the ONF and its partners will offer free activities for all audiences: biodiversity rally, guided walks, nature workshops for children, and demonstrations of forestry professions. The detailed program is available on the ONF website.
By car: Lyons-la-Forêt is located about 40 km east of Rouen via the D321. From Paris, allow about 1h30 via the A13 then the D6014.
Parking: Free parking in the village of Lyons-la-Forêt and near the arboretum.
The festival takes place annually around March 21st, for one to two weeks. Activities are spread over several days, generally on weekends and weekdays.
All activities are free. Registration recommended for certain activities on the ONF website.
Bring walking shoes suitable for the forest, warm and waterproof clothing depending on the March weather.
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Forêt domaniale de Lyons-la-Forêt
Forêt domaniale de Lyons, 27480 Lyons-la-Forêt