The grand baroque costume ball in the Hall of Mirrors of the Palace of Versailles
Les Fêtes Galantes are the most enchanting rendezvous at the Palace of Versailles. Every year in May, the Palace opens its doors for an exceptional costume evening in the Hall of Mirrors. Guests, dressed in sumptuous baroque costumes, dance on the floor of the most famous gallery in the world to the sound of music by Lully and Rameau, before a fireworks display launched from the gardens. Created in 2017 by Château de Versailles Spectacles, Les Fêtes Galantes revive the splendor of the court balls of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette in an event that has become a cult classic.
Les Fêtes Galantes offer a unique experience in the world: dancing in the Hall of Mirrors of the Palace of Versailles, dressed in a baroque period costume. This exceptional evening, organized by Château de Versailles Spectacles, transports its guests to the Grand Siècle for a magical night. The floor of the most famous gallery in the world, the 357 mirrors, the crystal chandeliers, and the paintings by Le Brun form the setting for a ball whose splendor is matched only by that of the festivities given by the Sun King.
The Fêtes Galantes evening is punctuated by a program of concerts and activities spread across the most beautiful spaces of the Palace. A sacred music concert (organ and voice) is held in the Royal Chapel, while a baroque music concert (harpsichord and voice) resonates in the Lower Gallery. A baroque dance workshop, led by costumed dance masters, introduces guests to country dancing in the Hall of Mirrors. The King's State Apartments are open for night visits, offering privileged access to rooms usually closed to the public.
At 11 p.m., the doors of the Hall of Mirrors open for the Grand Ball. Guests, adorned in their finest baroque attire, take to the gallery floor to dance to the sound of an period music orchestra. The Hall of Mirrors, illuminated by thousands of candles and its monumental chandeliers, rediscovers its primary purpose as a ballroom and a place of celebration. The ball continues into the early hours, punctuated by a spectacular fireworks display launched from the gardens, visible from the Terrace.
The dress code is at the heart of Les Fêtes Galantes. Each guest must present themselves in a quality baroque costume — powdered wigs, pannier dresses, embroidered coats, lace jabots. Those not in costume will be refused entry. This requirement creates an atmosphere of total immersion: from the moment guests pass through the Palace gates, the 21st century fades away in favor of a resurrected 18th century. Specialized costume makers offer custom creations or rentals for those who wish to prepare.
Since their creation in 2017, Les Fêtes Galantes have become a cult event attracting enthusiasts from all over the world — Japan, the United States, Italy, England. Tickets sell out in a few hours, making this evening one of the most exclusive events in France. Several ticket categories are offered, from Marquis to Doge, offering increasing levels of service: champagne, buffet, private tour of the apartments, early access to the Palace.
The 9th edition of Les Fêtes Galantes will take place on Monday, May 25, 2026, at the Palace of Versailles. Pre-event evening on Sunday, May 24, at the Domaine de Trianon to celebrate this special edition. Concert, baroque dance workshop, visit of the State Apartments, and Grand Ball in the Hall of Mirrors.
By train: Versailles-Rive Gauche station (RER C from Paris, 40 min). The Palace is a 10-minute walk away.
By car: A13 from Paris, exit Versailles-Château. Parking place d'Armes.
Marquis/Marchioness: €115 (champagne + 2 activities). Dukes/Duchesses: intermediate price (champagne, buffet, apartment tour). Kings/Queens: early access at 6:30 p.m., Opera visit, seated buffet. Doges: €530 (all services + surprise activity). Ticketing at chateauversailles-spectacles.fr.
Baroque costume is mandatory. Anyone not in costume will be refused entry. Please wear a quality costume in 17th-18th century style.
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Château de Versailles — Galerie des Glaces, Chapelle Royale, Grands Appartements
Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles