Medieval Festival of Clermont-Ferrand

The Médiévales de Montferrand: thirty years of time travel

Every first weekend of June, the historic district of Montferrand, in Clermont-Ferrand, goes back in time to the Middle Ages. The Médiévales de Montferrand, organized by the eponymous association founded in 1996, transform this remarkably preserved district into a living medieval city, populated by knights, nobles, burghers, jesters, and beggars.

An exceptional medieval district

Montferrand is a unique district in France: a former fortified city founded in the 13th century, it retains exceptional medieval architectural heritage with its half-timbered houses, its Renaissance private mansions, its ramparts, and its historic squares. Place de la Rodade, Rue de la Rodade, and Place Poly form the heart of the festival, offering an unparalleled authentic setting.

A rich program of entertainment

The Médiévales de Montferrand offer a dense program over two days:

• Costumed parades: knights in armor, nobles in finery, troubadours, and jesters parade through the historic streets
• Historical reenactments: reenactment groups present civilian and military life of the 13th century with camps, weapon demonstrations, and combat
• Medieval craft market: costumed artisans showcase medieval trades: blacksmith, tanner, potter, illuminator, calligrapher
• Street performances: musicians, troubadours, storytellers, jugglers, and fire-eaters liven up the streets and squares
• Medieval ball: opening of the festivities with traditional medieval dances
• Children's entertainment: medieval games, juggling, pony rides, mini-farm
• Banquets: medieval meals served in the festive atmosphere of the city

Costume rental

For total immersion, the association offers medieval costume rentals for five euros per half-day. Young and old can thus step into the shoes of a medieval character and fully participate in the festival.

A free and family-friendly event

The Médiévales de Montferrand is a free and open-to-all event, from 10 am to 6 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. This accessibility, combined with the quality of the entertainment and the beauty of the setting, makes it one of the most popular heritage events in Clermont-Ferrand and the Auvergne region.