Les Rendez-vous de l'Histoire
The world's largest history festival, in Blois
About RVH Blois
Les Rendez-vous de l'Histoire: Blois, World Capital of History
Les Rendez-vous de l'Histoire is the largest history festival in the world. Founded in 1998 in Blois by historian Jack Lang, this unique festival annually transforms the royal city into a vast forum dedicated to history in all its forms: academic, popular, artistic, and civic.
An Exceptionally Rich Program
Each edition of Les Rendez-vous de l'Histoire offers a program of considerable scope: over 1,000 speakers, more than 600 debates and conferences, 300 authors signing books, a history book fair bringing together 150 publishers, a film series of about sixty films, exhibitions, historical cafés, historical dinners, concerts, and shows. The festival attracts over 50,000 visitors each year.
A Unifying Annual Theme
Each edition explores a different theme, chosen for its historical relevance and its resonance with contemporary issues. The 29th edition, taking place from October 7 to 11, 2026, is dedicated to the theme «The Merchants»: the figure of the merchant and trader throughout the ages, exchanges and trade routes, power relations and social transformations, from Antiquity to the contemporary era. These themes unify all interventions, from the book fair to debates, screenings, and exhibitions.
A Crossroads Between Research and the General Public
Les Rendez-vous de l'Histoire stands out for its ability to foster dialogue between the world of academic research and the general public. Historians, researchers, writers, filmmakers, artists, and political figures interact in various formats: keynote lectures, round tables, interviews, historical cafés, and educational workshops. The festival has become a benchmark for quality historical popularization.
The History Book Fair
The History Book Fair is one of the festival's highlights. For three days, 150 publishers and 300 authors take over the Halle aux Grains in Blois to present the latest publications in history, essays, historical comic books, and literature. Book signings and meetings with authors punctuate the fair.
A Festival Rooted in Blois
The festival takes over the entire city of Blois: the royal castle, the Halle aux Grains, the Maison de la Magie, cinemas, cafés, libraries, and numerous public spaces. This integration into the urban fabric makes Les Rendez-vous de l'Histoire a lively and popular event, which permeates the entire city for five days.
Practical information — RVH Blois
Getting to Blois
By Train
Blois-Chambord station is served by TER Centre-Val de Loire and Intercités trains from Paris-Austerlitz (approx. 1h30). Festival venues are within walking distance of the station.
By Car
Blois is located 1h30 from Paris via the A10 motorway (Blois exit). Public parking is available in the city center.
Main Festival Venues
- Halle aux Grains: Place de la République - Book Fair
- Château Royal de Blois: Conferences and debates
- CCI Campus: 6 rue Anne de Bretagne - Conferences
- Cinéma Les Lobis: Film cycle
- Numerous other venues in the city center
Prices
Access to most events is free. Some conferences and the film cycle may require registration or a ticket. The Book Fair is free to enter.
Opening Hours
The festival takes place over five days in October, from Wednesday to Sunday. Conferences and debates are held from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The Book Fair is open from Friday to Sunday.
Food and Drink
The many restaurants and cafés in Blois city center welcome festival-goers. Historical dinners are organized in charming locations (reservations required).
Accessibility
The main festival venues are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Contact
Address: 4 ter rue Robert Houdin, 41000 Blois
Email: [email protected]
Official Website: rdv-histoire.com
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Where does it take place — RVH Blois
Château Royal de Blois / Halle aux Grains / Campus CCI
4 ter rue Robert Houdin, 41000 Blois