Medieval Night Market of Mayenne

The Château de Mayenne in Medieval Attire

The Medieval Night Market, affectionately called MNM's by locals, transforms the park and upper courtyard of the Château de Mayenne into a true ephemeral medieval village every summer. This Carolingian castle, one of the oldest fortified palaces in Europe, now houses an archaeology museum and offers an ideal historic setting for this event that blends heritage, crafts, and live performance.

A Craft Market in Medieval Colors

About thirty exhibitors set up on the site to offer their creations and products around two main themes:

• Medieval Crafts: jewelry inspired by the Middle Ages, illuminations, leatherwork, pottery, artisanal candles, and decorative weapons
• Fantasy Universe: creations inspired by legends, figurines, fairy-tale objects, and fantasy illustrations
• Local Products: honey, jams, mead, artisanal bread, and specialties from the Mayenne region
• Medieval Catering: "Médiéval Box" allows you to assemble a medieval-style evening meal to take away and enjoy in the park

Shows and Entertainment Throughout the Evening

The MNM's program is rich in entertainment that immerses visitors in the medieval atmosphere:

• Knightly Adventure Show: a noble knight sets out to save his princess in an interactive and humorous staging
• Medieval Musicians' Stroll: costumed musicians play ancient instruments (hurdy-gurdy, tambourine, bagpipes) in the market aisles
• Fire Show: at dusk, fire-eaters and jugglers set the castle park ablaze in an impressive show
• Medieval Face Painting: fantasy and medieval face painting for adults and children
• Life-Size Chess: a giant chessboard on which visitors become the game pieces

A Family-Friendly and Free Event

The MNM's are designed to welcome all audiences, from the youngest to the oldest. Entry is completely free, with only purchases at the market and catering being paid. The extended hours from 4 PM to 11 PM allow you to enjoy the event both in the late afternoon and in the cool, magical evening.

The Museum of the Château de Mayenne

The Museum of the Château de Mayenne, an event partner, is an archaeology museum that preserves and presents the remains of the Carolingian palace discovered beneath the current castle. On the occasion of the MNM's, the museum sometimes offers thematic tours related to the medieval period.