Sedan Medieval Festival

The Sedan Castle: an exceptional setting

The Sedan Medieval Festival takes place in a unique setting: the Sedan Castle, a listed historic monument and recognized as the largest medieval fortress in Europe with its 35,000 m² of surface area. Built in the 15th century by the La Marck family, this imposing fortress overlooks the Meuse valley and offers a grandiose and authentic backdrop for complete immersion in the medieval world. Its inner courtyards, ramparts, towers, and vaulted halls are transformed for a weekend into a true medieval village.

A leading historical reenactment festival

Created in 1998, the Sedan Medieval Festival has become over the years one of the largest historical reenactment events in France. Every year in May, over 100 artisans, performance companies, reenactment troupes, and musicians take over the castle to bring the Middle Ages back to life. Knightly combat in armor, fire shows, jugglers, troubadours, falconry, archery, and medieval games punctuate the two days of the festival. The historical encampments, recreated with a concern for authenticity, allow visitors to discover the arts and crafts of the era.

An artisan market and medieval flavors

The festival hosts a large medieval artisan market where blacksmiths, tanners, potters, illuminators, weavers, and jewelers showcase their Middle Ages-inspired creations. Visitors can acquire unique handcrafted items: decorative swords, medieval jewelry, costumes, worked leather, and ceramics. A tavern area offers medieval-inspired food and drinks: spit-roasted suckling pig, hypocras, mead, and old-fashioned pastries, for a taste experience in keeping with the festival's atmosphere.

Over 40,000 visitors and 400 volunteers

With over 40,000 visitors each year, the Sedan Medieval Festival is a major economic and tourist driver for the town of Sedan and the Ardennes department. The event relies on the commitment of over 400 volunteers who ensure the organization, reception, security, and animation of the festival. Their dedication and passion for medieval heritage make this event a recognized success far beyond the Ardennes borders, attracting enthusiasts from all over France, Belgium, and Luxembourg.