Les Médiévales de Villeneuve-sur-Yonne

2025 Edition — August 14th and 15th

For the 2025 edition, the Médiévales of Villeneuve-sur-Yonne unfolded their activities over two full days around August 15th, within the exceptional historical setting of the royal fortified town. The town hall park and Boulevard Marceau served as the two main hubs for activities during this entirely free and family-friendly festival.

Camps and Reenactments

Several historical reenactment groups set up their camps in the municipal park. Visitors could discover medieval crafts and techniques: quill calligraphy, wool spinning, stone carving demonstrations, and rope making. The presentation of weapons and armor, along with armored combat demonstrations particularly appreciated by the public, recreated the martial atmosphere of medieval knights. Falconry demonstrations also offered visitors a chance to discover this noble art, with birds of prey trained by their falconers.

Medieval Market and Food

On Boulevard Marceau, about thirty specialized merchants and artisans held their stalls throughout the two days: artisanal jewelry, herbal soaps, books and illuminations, spices, worked leather, and medicinal herbs. Two themed food areas offered roasted meats, rustic soups, and medieval drinks to visitors eager to extend their sensory immersion.

Musical Entertainment and Costumed Parade

Troubadour and minstrel troupes animated the narrow streets of the old town with medieval melodies played on the vielle, lute, and bagpipes. The traditional costumed parade crossed the historic center of the town, from the Porte de Sens to the park, bringing together reenactors, residents, and visitors in a colorful procession.

Fireworks on the Yonne River

On the evening of August 14th, the fireworks display launched from the banks of the Yonne River attracted a large crowd to the quays and the Pont Saint-Nicolas. This nocturnal pyrotechnic spectacle beautifully concluded the first day of the festival in one of Burgundy's most beautiful medieval towns.