Shepherds' Festival, Shearing, and Wool Celebration: 2026 Schedule at the National Ranch of Rambouillet

It's a charming tradition that heralds the arrival of spring in the Paris region—a must-attend event that everyone looks forward to! Once again this year, the National Sheepfold in Rambouillet is celebrating the season change with the Shepherds, Shearing, and Wool Festival, taking place on Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29, 2026.

The Mérinos sheep is somewhat of an iconic symbol for the Rambouillet National Sheep Farm: this breed has been part of the farm’s history for over 200 years, and its wool is especially prized. For two days, both families and professionals are invited to explore everything there is to know about this unique breed.

What's on? Come and visit the sheepfolds, learn all there is to know about working with wool, and follow the sheep-shearing and herding dog demonstrations from A to Z! La Bergerie also offers horse-drawn carriage rides, and there's a designer's market especially for the occasion. And don't forget the knitting café and crochet tea, where you can knit in a friendly atmosphere, and the stilt walk for the more sporty of you! There's something for all ages, for young and old alike, and it's like a real village fete!

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Otherwise, just like on any regular day, the La Bergerie Educational Farm welcomes visitors with a guided tour and plenty of farm animals to meet. It’s a wonderful way to officially celebrate the arrival of spring 2026!

Highlights of the 2026 Shearing and Wool Festival:

• Interactive Workshops: Become an apprentice shepherd!
  Led by our educators and technical staff, you'll participate in a variety of activities: assisting with herding dogs, feeding the sheep, understanding animal welfare, sorting wool, exploring the farm's archives, and meeting historical figures like Louis XVI and Napoleon… plus many more surprises! It’s your turn to get involved! 
  
  
• Shearing & Wool
  The first ROMANE sheep will be sheared during this weekend. Every half hour, a live demonstration of shearing will be performed and explained. Try your luck with the Tombo’laine contest: guess the weight of a fleece as accurately as possible! 
  
  
• Crafts Market
  Located in the Merino Ram building, the artisans' market offers a space dedicated to exploring wool and other animal and plant fibers. Wool processors, artisans, spinners, weavers, felters, and hat makers will be on hand to share their passion and craftsmanship. 
  
  
• Dogs & Work
  Watch demonstrations of Border Collies in action—masterful herding dogs that are essential helpers on the farm. 
  
  
• Giant Stilt-Hiking Course
  Perched on stilts, the shepherd navigates an obstacle course (slalom, inclined plane, bridge, hedge…) and uses a staff to carefully herd the sheep one by one back into the barn. 
  
  
• Textile Fibers & Pedal for Peace
  The La Fibre Textile association showcases each stage of fiber processing: washing, carding, spinning, felting, dyeing, weaving, and tapestry—highlighting natural materials and traditional know-how.
  The “Pedal for Peace” project focuses on spinning and solidarity. 
  
  
• Knitting Café & Crochet Tea
  Thanks to the Ramboli’laines association, you won’t have to knit alone anymore. Join us at the knitting café and crochet tea for tips, friendly company, and good vibes! 
  
  
• Sheep & Carriage Ride (€3 extra on top of entrance fee)
  Enjoy a 20-minute carriage ride that traces the farm’s life outside the walls through scenic pastures and fields. 
  
  
• Discussion Moments with Our Technicians and Enthusiasts
  Our wool experts will be available to share technical insights about sheep management, wool processing, and local valorization during engaging conversations. 
  
  
• The Farm Shop and Merino Café open from 11 a.m. onward