Noël à Chambord
The magic of the holidays in the largest Loire Valley château
2026
About Noël à Chambord
Noël à Chambord — edition 2026
The 13th edition of Christmas at Chambord takes place from November 28, 2026, to January 17, 2027, at the Château de Chambord. This edition honors gluttony and Gargantua through unique decorations, illuminations, and shows that celebrate the gastronomic heritage of the Renaissance. The castle transforms into a magical setting, from the entrance porch to the gardens, to offer families an enchanted interlude during the year-end festivities.
Christmas 2026: Gluttony and Gargantua in the Spotlight
For its 2026-2027 winter edition, the National Estate of Chambord places the magic of Christmas under the sign of gluttony and Gargantua, an emblematic figure of François Rabelais. Unique decorations, illuminations, and scenographies celebrate the art of the table and the gastronomic heritage of the largest castle in the Loire, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
An Exhibition on Feasts
This edition is a continuation of the exhibition Les Festins de Chambord (The Feasts of Chambord), presented from September 26, 2026, which traces the culinary history of the castle from the 16th century to the present day.
Activities for the Whole Family
From November 30, 2026, old wooden games and board games will be available for free access. On weekends in December and early January, the castle comes alive with Renaissance music and dances, costumed character strolls, Christmas shows, storytelling, hunting horn concerts, nature activities, and creative workshops. The Christmas village, its carousel, and its chalets extend the magic around the castle.
Highlights Noël à Chambord 2026
- 13th edition, from November 28, 2026, to January 17, 2027
- Unique theme: gluttony and Gargantua
- Exhibition Les Festins de Chambord on the culinary history of the castle
- Old games with free access, Renaissance activities, and Christmas village
- Decorations and illuminations in the largest castle of the Loire
Programme Noël à Chambord 2026
Provisional program for the 2026-2027 edition (theme: gluttony and Gargantua). The detailed day-by-day program will be announced by the castle closer to the event.
Throughout the period (from November 30, 2026)
- Old wooden games and board games with free access
- Decorations, illuminations, and lighting on the theme of gluttony and Gargantua, from the entrance porch to the gardens
- Exhibition Les Festins de Chambord (since September 26, 2026)
Weekends in December and early January
- Renaissance music and dances
- Strolls by costumed characters
- Christmas shows
- Storytelling
- Hunting horn concerts
- Nature activities and creative workshops for children
- Christmas village with carousel and chalets around the castle
Practical information — Noël à Chambord
Access to Chambord Château
By Car
Chambord is located 15 km from Blois via the D33, and 1h30 from Paris via the A10 motorway (exit Blois or Mer). Free parking is available near the entrance to the estate.
By Train
The nearest station is Blois-Chambord, served by TER Centre-Val de Loire and Intercités trains from Paris. From the station, Chambord is accessible by taxi or rental car.
Period and Opening Hours
Noël à Chambord takes place from late November to early January. The château is open every day except December 25th. Activities mainly take place on weekends and during school holidays. Magic shows are scheduled at fixed times (10:30 AM, 2:30 PM, and 4:30 PM depending on the day).
Ticket Prices
Access to the Christmas activities is included in the château's entrance ticket. Prices and conditions are available on the château's online ticketing service.
Ticketing
Tickets are available at chateaudechambord.tickeasy.com and at the château's ticket office. Booking is recommended during school holidays.
Food and Drink
The château has several dining areas open during the Christmas period. The chalets in the Christmas village also offer hot drinks and seasonal specialties.
Accessibility
The château is accessible to people with reduced mobility via several adapted entrances. Strollers are allowed within the château grounds.
Recommendations
- Bring warm clothing for outdoor activities and the illuminations
- The illuminations begin at dusk
- Outdoor activities will take place unless there are extreme weather conditions
Contact
Phone: 02 54 50 50 40
Official website: www.chambord.org
Email: [email protected]
Noël à Chambord: The Magic of the Holidays in a Renaissance Château
Noël à Chambord is one of the most enchanting winter events in the Loire Valley. Each year, from late November to early January, the Domaine national de Chambord transforms into a true wonderland, offering visitors a magical experience in the heart of the largest château in the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Magical Decorations by Artists
Each edition of Noël à Chambord is designed around an original theme that guides all the scenographies. The lounges, the chapel, and the iconic double-helix staircase are adorned with sumptuous decorations created by renowned artists and schools. In 2025, the magic will be inspired by the theme of Andersen's fairy tales, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Danish writer's death, with floral creations designed by students from the École nationale des fleuristes de Paris.
Shows and Activities for the Whole Family
A rich program of activities punctuates the weekends and school holidays: magic shows with several daily sessions, creative workshops for children, storytelling, old-fashioned games, Renaissance dances, chocolate painting, and nature encounters. The youngest visitors can meet Santa Claus, take photos with him, and share a few words about the magic of Christmas.
The Christmas Village and Illuminations
Outside the château, a charming Christmas village welcomes visitors with its chalets offering local crafts and products, including Chambord wines. An enchanted carousel delights both young and old. At dusk, the gardens and the château's façade light up: sparkling fir trees, golden garlands, and luminous reflections create an unforgettable spectacle that extends the magic into the night.
A Family and Cultural Gathering
Noël à Chambord is above all a family and intergenerational event. The activities are designed for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year from all over France to experience the magic of Christmas in an exceptional heritage setting, blending wonder, culture, and tradition.
Where does it take place — Noël à Chambord
Noël à Chambord in brief
History of Noël à Chambord
Edition 2025 Nov 2025Other festivals near Chambord
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