Medieval Festival of Chalmazel

A Journey Through Time in the Heart of Forez

Since the year 2000, the Medieval Festival of Chalmazel has transformed the village of Chalmazel-Jeansagnière into a true medieval city every two years. Nestled at an altitude of 900 meters in the Monts du Forez, the village offers an exceptional natural and heritage setting for this dive into history. From the church to the Pontet district, via the Château des Marcilly-Talaru (13th century) and the town hall square, every alley is adorned with banners, artisan stalls, and medieval encampments.

More Than Fifteen Exceptional Troupes

Each edition hosts more than fifteen medieval performance troupes from all over France. Fire-eaters, jugglers, acrobats, stilt walkers, jesters, musicians, and dancers take over the village streets throughout the weekend. Among the companies that have marked previous editions: Tribu Kassguëul, Compagnie du Clair Obscur, Goupil ou Face, Les Baladeux, In Vino Veritas, Caminaire, Saboï, Marazula, La Corne Percée, the Archers de la Salamandre, Jurajali, and L'Étoile. The shows are spread across several stages in the village so that the public doesn't miss any of the festivities.

A Rich Program for the Whole Family

On Saturday afternoon, from 3 p.m., the village comes alive with street fights, comic sketches, medieval dance and music, archery demonstrations, games of skill, and creative workshops for children (face painting, treasure hunt, medieval games). The medieval market offers period crafts and local products, while the taverns serve roast beef, hypocras, and other ancient dishes. On Saturday evening, a torchlight procession in period costumes precedes a grand fire show, followed by a fireworks display and a medieval ball in the village square. On Sunday, the festivities resume from 10 a.m. with the same fervor, enriched by a medieval banquet (by reservation) and a plant discovery walk.

An Event Rooted in Local Heritage

Supported by the Chalmazel Festival Committee and an army of volunteers, the Medieval Festival has become a must-see event for the living heritage of the Loire. Wearing period costumes is strongly encouraged for total immersion. The village is entirely closed to car traffic during the event, offering a safe pedestrian area where young and old can wander freely between the activities. With its thirteen editions, the event attracts visitors from all over the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and beyond.