Medieval Festival of Montby Castle
Biennial medieval festival in the ruins of Montby Castle
About Montby Medieval Festival
The Medieval Festival of Montby Castle: A Journey Through Time in the Heart of the Doubs
Every two years, the ruins of Montby Castle, in the commune of Gondenans-Montby, are adorned with medieval colors for a festive weekend. The Medieval Festival of Montby Castle, organized by the association Les Amis du Château de Montby, immerses visitors in the heart of the Middle Ages with lively and exciting historical reenactments.
An 11th to 18th Century Castle
Montby Castle is a remarkable heritage site whose history spans from the 11th to the 18th century. Its imposing ruins, overlooking the rolling landscape of the Doubs, offer an authentic setting for medieval reenactments. The association Les Amis du Château de Montby works for the preservation, restoration, animation, and promotion of this historic site.
Lively and Immersive Reenactments
The medieval festival offers a rich and varied program that transports visitors to the Middle Ages:
- Guided tours of the castle to discover the history of the site through the centuries
- Stalls representing medieval life: pottery, calligraphy, coats of arms, blacksmithing
- Knight and archer combats within the castle grounds
- Courteous jousts and medieval dances
- Artisans: leatherwork, jewelry, basketry, blacksmithing
Colorful Characters
The site comes alive with costumed characters recreating the atmosphere of the Middle Ages: tooth-pullers, witches, executioners, blacksmiths, apothecaries, and medieval merchant couples mingle with the public. These faithful reenactments provide a fun and educational understanding of daily life in medieval times.
A Family-Friendly and Convivial Event
The Medieval Festival of Montby Castle places great importance on activities for children, who can try their hand at archery, illumination, and other medieval pursuits. Food stalls offer traditional specialties and artisanal drinks. The event aims to be accessible to all, with a festive and friendly atmosphere that appeals to audiences of all ages.
Montby Medieval Festival — edition 2026
The 12th Medieval Festival of Château de Montby will take place on Saturday, July 4 and Sunday, July 5, 2026 in the castle ruins in Gondenans-Montby (Doubs). Organized by the association Les Amis du Château de Montby, this biennial edition will, as usual, offer historical re-enactments, knight fights, craft artisans, and family entertainment. Opening Saturday from 14h to 19h and Sunday from 10h to 18h.
Medieval Festival of Château de Montby 2026 — 12th edition
The association Les Amis du Château de Montby announces its 12th Medieval Festival on Saturday, July 4 and Sunday, July 5, 2026, within the castle ruins in Gondenans-Montby (Doubs). As with each biennial edition, the historic castle site (11th-18th century) will transform into a living medieval village for a weekend.
Opening Hours
- Saturday, July 4, 2026: 14h to 19h
- Sunday, July 5, 2026: 10h to 18h
Provisional Program
The detailed program for the 2026 edition will be communicated shortly by the association on its official website and Facebook page. Based on previous editions, the festival offers:
- Armored combat on foot and horseback, equestrian shows
- Guided tours of the castle and its medieval encampment
- Artisan demonstrations: weaving, herbalism, medieval cooking, leatherwork, jewelry, basketry, blacksmithing
- Children's entertainment: face painting, medieval games, Troll Ball, introductory workshops
- Costumed characters: tooth pullers, witches, executioners, blacksmiths, apothecaries
- On-site catering: traditional waffles, sandwiches, fries, refreshment stand
Sunday Lunch by Reservation
As in previous editions, a medieval meal might be offered on Sunday lunchtime by reservation. The exact details for 2026 will be published by the association — please inquire directly with the organizers.
Highlights Montby Medieval Festival 2026
- Saturday, July 4 and Sunday, July 5, 2026 at Château de Montby
- 12th edition of the biennial medieval festival
- Saturday 14h-19h, Sunday 10h-18h
- Armored combat, artisans, family entertainment
- Detailed program to come on the association's website
Prices Montby Medieval Festival 2026
Practical information — Montby Medieval Festival
Practical Information
Location
Montby Castle, Gondenans-Montby (25340). The castle is located on the heights of the village.
Access
By car: From Besançon, take the D683 towards Baume-les-Dames, then follow the "Château de Montby" signs. Parking available on site.
By train: Baume-les-Dames station (15 km), then by car.
Frequency
Biennial event (every two years), usually in July.
Contact
Association Les Amis du Château de Montby
Phone: 06 28 25 02 74
Website: www.chateaudemontby.com
Facebook: Les Amis du Château de Montby
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Where does it take place — Montby Medieval Festival
Château de Montby
14 route d'Uzelle, 25340 Gondenans-Montby