Monument Jeu d’enfant 2026: a theatrical guided tour and a drawing workshop at the Maison des Jardies

La Maison des Jardies, located in Sèvres, is taking part in the Monument Jeu d'Enfant event over the weekend of October 17–18, 2026. On the agenda: guided tours and creative workshops to discover the monument in a new light with children!

Start your All Saints' Day vacation with a visit just a few kilometers from Paris. Head for Sèvres to discover a very special winegrower's house. Built at the end of the 17th century, the Maison des Jardies was designed for Parisians in search of a return to nature, idealized by Enlightenment thinkers.

A haven of peace for personalities seeking peace and quiet, including Balzac, it became "political" after the death of Léon Gambetta. Indeed, the great figure of the resistance during the war against Prussia in 1870 took refuge at Jardies and died there in 1882. The residence was donated to the State after his death, and a collection of objects commemorates the memory and battles of the founding father of the Third Republic.

Make the most of the weekend with Monument Jeu d'Enfant to discover this very special place that’s often off the radar for Île-de-France residents. A lineup of playful activities awaits both kids and adults on October 17 and 18, 2026.

For this 28th edition, the Maison des Jardies is organizing activities and workshops for the whole family. This special visit lets us meet the major figures of French history connected to this Hauts-de-Seine house.

Here's the detailed weekend plan:

Caricature Takes the Stage
As part of the “Monument, a Child’s Play” program, step into the satirical world of 19th‑century caricature at the Maison des Jardies!
Through a theatrical tour, meet Léon Gambetta and discover how illustrated press shaped his image. A republican hero, a passionate orator, a larger‑than‑life figure… Gambetta’s caricatures are plentiful! Satirical drawings and illustrated journals reveal another facet of 19th‑century political and artistic life.
After the tour, it’s time to create! Guided by a caricaturist, you’ll learn to play with lines, expressions and exaggeration to craft your own caricature. A family portrait, a humorous self‑portrait, or a Gambetta reimagining: everyone can let their imagination run free and leave with their artwork. A playful, creative activity to share with the family and discover the 19th century in a fresh light—humor, drawing and live performance.
Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM
Included in the admission. Free for children. Adults: €7
Ages 8 and up
Advance booking required

This tour turns into an exciting game for children, offering a playful look at the history of France! Reservations are strongly recommended. Shall we go?