Medieval Festival of Dourdan

The Medieval Festival of Dourdan: immersion in the Middle Ages in the heart of Essonne

Every first weekend of June, the town of Dourdan transforms into a living medieval city. The Medieval Festival of Dourdan is one of the most popular historical reenactments in Île-de-France, attracting over 20,000 visitors each year who come to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Entirely free, it takes place in the heart of the historic center, around the fortress built in the late 13th century under Philip Augustus and Saint Louis.

A Fortress as a Setting

The Dourdan fortress is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Île-de-France. Built between 1220 and 1222, it includes a circular keep, a large tower, corner towers, and a moat that is still partially filled with water. This listed historic monument provides an authentic and spectacular backdrop for medieval reenactments, offering visitors a journey into history just 35 kilometers from Paris.

A Rich and Varied Program

The Medieval Festival of Dourdan offers two full days of entertainment:

Tournaments and Chivalry

The knight tournaments are the highlight of the show. Knights in authentic armor compete in equestrian jousts and foot combat, faithfully recreating historical reenactments. These jousts, regulated according to medieval codes, are accompanied by educational commentary allowing the public to understand the rules and stakes of these ritualized confrontations.

Falconry and Birds of Prey

The falconry shows are one of the festival's highlights. Professional falconers present eagles, falcons, hawks, and other birds of prey in striking free-flight demonstrations. This ancient art, practiced since antiquity and codified in the Middle Ages, has been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list since 2010.

Medieval Market

Over 70 medieval artisans and merchants set up in the streets of the town center for a market with the flavors of a bygone era. Potters, glassblowers, illuminators, bookbinders, modelers, and candle and leather goods makers offer their creations in period stalls. Visitors can watch the artisans at work and acquire authentic handcrafted pieces.

Shows and Entertainment

Troupes of actors, troubadours, jugglers, and musicians roam the town, animating the medieval streets with their performances. Evening fire shows, medieval dances, balls, and traditional music complete a festive and immersive program. Medieval meals in the market hall allow visitors to dine in the spirit of the era.

Children's Activities

The Medieval Festival is a family event par excellence. Specific workshops for children (archery initiation, medieval face painting, clay craft making) allow them to actively participate in the historical reenactment.

An Event That Grows Every Year

The Medieval Festival of Dourdan is organized by passionate local associations who dedicate a significant part of the year to preparing this event. The 28th edition in 2025 confirmed the growing appeal of this event, which each year brings together more participants in period costumes and visitors from all over Île-de-France and beyond.

Participants in medieval costume are particularly welcome: knightly outfits, ladies' dresses, peasant or merchant attire enrich the historical reenactment atmosphere and contribute to the collective experience.