Le Carrousel de Saumur
The oldest military and equestrian show in France
About Carrousel de Saumur
Le Carrousel de Saumur: A Bicentennial Tradition
Since 1828, the Carrousel de Saumur has perpetuated a unique tradition in France: that of grand equestrian and military demonstrations inherited from royal carousels. It was the Duchess of Berry who, during a visit to the Cavalry School, revived this tradition that had fallen into oblivion since the Revolution. Thirty-two riders divided into four quadrilles then performed complex figures, simulating lance combat and participating in ring races. The success was such that the Duchess requested a second performance the following day.
An Exceptional Show in the Heart of Saumur
Every year in July, the Carrousel takes over the Place Charles de Foucauld and the Cour d'Iéna, at the foot of the majestic facade of the Cavalry School. The show, lasting more than two hours, consists of several scenes retracing the history of the French cavalry: the equestrian traditions of the Cadre Noir with its famous "Airs" and high school figures, the daily life at the Cavalry School with demonstrations of modern combat training, and a grand historical reenactment featuring the mythical regiments of the French cavalry, accompanied by tanks and armored vehicles from the Tank Museum.
A Defense Village for the Whole Family
In addition to the show, a large Defense Village is open to the public, allowing visitors to discover the jobs in the Army, meet active soldiers, and try out different disciplines. A military book and comic strip fair is also organized at the Cavalry Museum. The entire event is free and open to all, in line with the desire for sharing and transmission that has driven this event for nearly two centuries.
The Cadre Noir, Jewel of Equestrian Heritage
The Cadre Noir of Saumur, inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, is at the heart of the Carrousel. Its riders, dressed in their characteristic black uniform, present the high school figures and the "Airs relevés"—courbette, croupade, and cabriole—that have made this institution, founded in 1825, world-renowned. The Carrousel thus offers a unique opportunity to see these elite riders perform outdoors, in the historic setting of their city of origin.
Carrousel de Saumur — edition 2026
The 176th edition of the Carrousel de Saumur will take place on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Place Charles de Foucauld, in the heart of Saumur. The oldest military cultural event in France, the Carrousel offers a grand equestrian and military show with free access, blending the traditions of the Cadre Noir, demonstrations by the École de cavalerie, and the armored vehicles from the Musée des Blindés.
176th edition — July 11 and 12, 2026
The Carrousel de Saumur returns for its 176th edition on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Place Charles de Foucauld, in the city center. True to its tradition, this major event — presented as the oldest military cultural event in France — brings together the riders of the Cadre Noir, the cavalrymen and students of the École de cavalerie, and the vehicles from the Musée des Blindés. Access to the show and the village is free.
A show in three acts
The show, lasting approximately three hours, consists of three acts blending equestrian traditions, military demonstrations, and historical reenactments:
- Equestrian displays by the Cadre Noir de Saumur as an opening;
- Demonstrations by the students of the École de cavalerie;
- Combat sequences, drone and paratrooper interventions;
- Parade of the Belgian Army;
- Finale with the historical military vehicles from the Musée des Blindés in dynamic demonstrations.
Alongside the show, the Defense village presents the professions and units of the French Army to the public.
Detailed program and schedules announced on the official website and at the Office de tourisme Saumur Val de Loire closer to the event.
Programme Carrousel de Saumur 2026
Show in three acts
- Cadre Noir de Saumur displays
- Demonstrations by the students of the École de cavalerie
- Combat sequences, drones and paratroopers
- Parade of the Belgian Army
- Finale with the armored vehicles from the Musée des Blindés
Around the show
Defense village presenting the professions and units of the French Army. Free access to the show and the village.
Prices Carrousel de Saumur 2026
Practical information — Carrousel de Saumur
Practical Information
Access
By car: Saumur is accessible via the A85 motorway (Saumur exit). Free parking is available near the city center.
By train: Saumur station is served by TER trains from Angers (30 min), Tours (45 min), and Nantes (1h30).
Show Venue
The show takes place on Place Charles de Foucauld, in the heart of Saumur, in front of the Cavalry School. The Defense Village is set up on Place du Chardonnet.
Schedule
Defense Village opens at 12 p.m. Show gates open at 2 p.m. Musical fanfare at 2:45 p.m. Show starts at 3 p.m.
Prices
Completely free access to the show and the Defense Village.
Tips
- Arrive early to get the best seats
- Bring sun protection and water
- The show lasts over two hours
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Where does it take place — Carrousel de Saumur
Place du Chardonnet - École de Cavalerie
Place Charles de Foucauld, 49400 Saumur