Medieval festival at the foot of Pierrefonds Castle in the Oise
Les Médiévales de Pierrefonds is a grand medieval festival that takes place every year at the foot of Pierrefonds Castle, a jewel of neo-Gothic architecture restored by Viollet-le-Duc. For one summer weekend, the village transforms into a medieval city with a market of over 80 exhibitors, recreated encampments, equestrian jousts, falconry shows, fire-eaters, sword fights, musicians and troubadours, demonstrations of period crafts, and family entertainment.
The Château de Pierrefonds, a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture restored in the 19th century by Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, provides a spectacular setting for the Médiévales de Pierrefonds. At the foot of its towers and ramparts, the village transforms each summer into a true medieval city for a weekend.
The heart of the festival is its medieval market, which brings together over 80 exhibitors: artisans, blacksmiths, armorers, costume makers, jewelers, apothecaries, and local producers offer their creations and know-how in an authentic and picturesque atmosphere.
The program is rich in shows and entertainment: equestrian jousts, falconry shows, blacksmithing demonstrations, sword fights, fire-eaters, fakirs, jugglers, medieval musicians and troubadours, medieval dances, and costumed parades. Six encampments from medieval troupes allow visitors to discover daily life in the Middle Ages.
The Médiévales offers numerous activities for children and families: knight's trail, leather pouch making, archery initiation, educational farm, and puppet shows. These participatory workshops allow younger visitors to immerse themselves in the medieval world in a fun way.
The village of Pierrefonds, nestled in the heart of the Compiègne forest, is dominated by the majestic silhouette of its castle. This unique setting, between forest and medieval architecture, makes the Médiévales de Pierrefonds one of the most spectacular medieval festivals in northern France.
The Médiévales de Pierrefonds is an eagerly awaited event by locals and visitors, contributing to the tourist and cultural influence of the Compiègne and Oise region. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year to discover or rediscover the magic of the Middle Ages.
2025 edition of Les Médiévales de Pierrefonds at the foot of the castle. Medieval festival weekend with a market of 80 exhibitors, recreated encampments, equestrian jousts, falconry, fights, and family entertainment.
Les Médiévales de Pierrefonds return in August 2025 at the foot of the castle. A medieval festival weekend with a market of over 80 exhibitors, recreated encampments, equestrian jousts, falconry shows, sword fights, and entertainment for the whole family.
Village of Pierrefonds (60350), at the foot of the castle.
By car: From Compiègne, D973 towards Pierrefonds (15 km, approx. 20 minutes). From Paris, A1 then exit Compiègne. Designated parking areas on the outskirts of the village.
By train: Compiègne station, then bus or taxi to Pierrefonds.
Information on access fees from the Compiègne-Pierrefonds tourist office.
Medieval food stalls and local specialties on site.
Compiègne-Pierrefonds Tourist Office
Website: www.compiegne-pierrefonds.fr
Numerous hotels, B&Bs, and gîtes are available in the town and its surroundings. The local tourist office can help you find accommodation to suit your budget and needs. It is recommended to book in advance during the festival period, as accommodation can be in high demand.
The organizers strive to make the festival accessible to as many people as possible. People with reduced mobility are invited to contact the organization in advance of the event to prepare their visit and benefit from the best possible reception conditions.
The festival is suitable for families with children. Entertainment and dedicated areas are provided for the younger ones. Strollers are generally accepted on site, but it is advisable to check the access conditions according to the performance venues.
For any additional information on the festival, its program, prices, and access conditions, do not hesitate to consult the official event website or contact the organizers directly. The festival's social media regularly broadcast updated news and practical information.
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Village de Pierrefonds
Centre du village, 60350 Pierrefonds