Monument Jeu d'Enfant 2026: Create your puppet for the Basilica of Saint-Denis

Want to visit the Basilica of Saint-Denis with the family? The landmark opens its doors to visitors of all ages for the Monument Jeu d’Enfant event this Saturday, October 17, 2026.

The history of the kings of France captivates your kids? Head to the Basilica Cathedral of Saint-Denis on Saturday, October 17, 2026 to learn about the great rulers of French history! Pepin the Short, Francis I, Marie Antoinette... Seventy monarchs are laid to rest in this basilica, in monumental tombs with funeral effigies, the famous and awe-inspiring gisants. On the occasion of the event Monument Jeu d'Enfant, the Basilica of Saint-Denis welcomes curious kids and grown-ups alike with new tours and workshops.

Through these recumbent figures, children are introduced not only to the tales and legends associated with the ancient abbey of Saint-Denis, but also to French history and the richness of France's cultural heritage. The basilica has stood the test of time, welcoming France's most famous crowned heads, from Dagobert to Louis XVIII, and has been decorated and rebuilt according to the fashions of the times.

Book your spots quickly for the tours organized by Saint-Denis Basilica, on Saturday, October 17. On the program for this special weekend: hands-on workshops and wonderful moments to share with the whole family:

Monument Play Time for Kids
Come with your family to the Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis and make your very own puppet!
Saturday, October 17 at 2:45 PM
Free for under-26s. Adult: €17
Online ticketing opens soon
Young audience from 4 years old
Duration 2 hours
As part of the “Monument jeu d’enfant” event, the Centre des monuments nationaux invites you to share a friendly family moment inside the Basilica-Cathedral of Saint-Denis. Discover the program, which blends exploring the site and its history with hands-on workshops for young and old!

Workshop visit: The fabulous King Dagobert!
Step into the footsteps of King Dagobert at the Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica! His name echoes through folklore thanks to a famous song that credits him with being “cheeky.” From his birth to his four marriages and his territorial expansion, we arrive at his magnificent tomb, still housed in the basilica of Saint-Denis. A tomb that tells a fable: between paradise and hell… Dagobert, famed for his “pants,” has become a figure of legend. Fascinating, mysterious, and rich in imagination, these tales captivate both young and old and promise a historically informative yet playful immersion!
In the workshop, each participant designs and crafts their own sleeve puppet, choosing its shape, its character, and its accessories.
A session is planned for ages 4-7 (parents will be asked to help the younger children in the workshop) and another for ages 8-12.

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So head to the Basilica of Saint-Denis to take part in the national event Monument Jeu d'Enfant 2026, which opens the doors of many monuments in Paris, Île-de-France and across France to young visitors!