La Grande Cavalcade de Nogent
The grand parade of flowery floats from Haute-Marne
About Cavalcade de Nogent
La Grande Cavalcade de Nogent: over 130 years of popular tradition
Since 1893, the Grande Cavalcade de Nogent has perpetuated a unique festive tradition in Haute-Marne. Formerly known as "corso fleuri", this biennial event is one of the most important cultural and popular events in the department. It takes place every two years, traditionally on the first Sunday of June, in the streets of Nogent (formerly Nogent-en-Bassigny), bringing together thousands of visitors from all over the Grand Est region.
A spectacular procession of flowery floats
The heart of the cavalcade is its grand parade of flowery floats. The procession consists of numerous richly decorated floats, accompanied by musical groups, majorette troupes, and costumed crews. The floats are built on frames of wire mesh, iron, and wood, then covered with thousands of meticulously handcrafted crepe paper flowers.
- Float construction: volunteers from local associations and surrounding municipalities work throughout the winter to build the structures and shape the paper flowers. Women—and sometimes men—meet regularly to create these thousands of flowers that will be attached to the floats a few weeks before the parade.
- Costumed crews: each float is accompanied by a costumed crew, often linked to a theme chosen for the edition.
- Brass bands and majorettes: musical groups and majorette troupes punctuate the procession, creating an atmosphere of celebration and conviviality.
- Confetti and streamers: the public and participants exchange confetti and streamers throughout the route, in a carnival-like atmosphere.
The election of the Queen of Nogent
One of the highlights of the cavalcade's preparation is the election of the Queen of Nogent, accompanied by her maids of honor and her mister. This election takes place during the winter preceding the cavalcade and is an event in itself. The last float in the procession is traditionally reserved for the Queen and her court, offering a majestic finale to the parade.
A living heritage carried by volunteers
The Grande Cavalcade de Nogent is above all a human and collective adventure. The event is organized by the Amicale Fêtes et Loisirs (Festivals and Leisure Association) in collaboration with numerous associations and neighboring municipalities. Dozens of volunteers mobilize for several months to prepare the floats, organize logistics, and ensure the smooth running of the festival.
For over 130 years, generations of Nogent residents have worked to keep this tradition alive. The 2023 edition celebrated the 130th anniversary of the cavalcade with the theme of music, after several years of interruption due to the health crisis. The event confirmed the deep attachment of the local population to this festival, which is an integral part of Nogent's identity.
A unifying festival for the entire region
Beyond Nogent, the cavalcade mobilizes several surrounding municipalities that actively participate in the construction of the floats and the parade. It is a unifying event that strengthens ties between the inhabitants of the Nogent basin and contributes to the cultural and tourist influence of Haute-Marne. Each edition attracts thousands of spectators, making Nogent the festive capital of the department for a day.
Practical information — Cavalcade de Nogent
Access
By car: Nogent is located in the south of Haute-Marne, approximately 25 km south of Chaumont via the D674. From the A31 motorway, take the Langres Sud exit then follow the direction of Nogent via the D974. From Paris, allow approximately 3 hours by car via the A5 then the A31. Parking lots are set up near the parade route.
By train: The nearest train station is Chaumont, served by TGV and TER trains from Paris-Est (approximately 2h30), Dijon and Nancy. From Chaumont, Nogent is accessible by car (approximately 25 min) or by departmental bus lines.
Parade Route
The procession of floats starts from Nogent le Bas and travels through the main streets and arteries of the city center. The exact route is communicated a few weeks before the event by the town hall and the organizing association. Spectators can position themselves freely along the route to watch the floats pass.
Prices
La Grande Cavalcade de Nogent is an entirely free event. Access to the parade and entertainment is free for all spectators. No ticketing is required.
Practical Information
- Frequency: Biennial event (it does not take place every year). The cavalcade traditionally takes place at the end of May or beginning of June.
- 2026 Edition: No cavalcade is scheduled for 2026; the date of the next edition was not yet known at the time of our verification (May 2026).
- Hours: The parade generally takes place in the afternoon, starting from 2 PM or 3 PM.
- Duration: The procession parades for approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Audience: Family event, accessible to all audiences.
- Catering: Refreshment stands and food stalls are generally set up along the route.
- Parking: Free parking lots are available on the outskirts of the city center.
Tips
- Arrive early to choose a good spot along the route.
- Bring sun protection (hat, cream) in case of good weather.
- Don't forget your confetti to join the celebration!
- The parade is suitable for families with children; some portions of the route are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Contact
Amicale Fêtes et Loisirs
Mairie de Nogent
Place du Général de Gaulle
52800 Nogent
Website: villedenogent52.fr
Festival-goer photos
No photo yet. Share yours!
Share your photos
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Vous avez repéré une erreur ou une information manquante ?
Aidez-nous à garder cette fiche à jour. Toute proposition est relue par notre équipe avant publication.
Festival-goer reviews
No rating yet — be the first!
No review yet. Be the first!
Were you there?
Share your experience with the community
Where does it take place — Cavalcade de Nogent
Rues du centre-ville de Nogent
Centre-ville de Nogent, 52800 Nogent