The unmissable highlight of the cultural season in Paris and across Île-de-France, the Journées du Patrimoine returns on September 19–20, 2026 to fling wide the doors of iconic and lesser-known venues across our region. Far from the beaten track, it’s a chance to step into distinctive addresses that tell the story of the dedication and daily life of those who watch over us. Head to the imperial city of Fontainebleau, where the Firefighters Museum welcomes visitors of all ages for an insider’s look at the work behind fighting the flames.
Set up on Place Orloff, in the heart of Bellifontaine, this community museum has made it its mission to collect, restore and preserve the material memory of the region’s firefighters. The venue safeguards an exceptional technical heritage spanning more than two centuries of interventions, from the end of the Ancien Régime in 1785 to contemporary operations. Visitors are welcomed by an impressive gallery of uniforms, patinated leather jackets and insignia that attest to the evolving standards of protective equipment across the ages.
The visit lets you get a close look at old hand pumps, horse-drawn gear, and the first motorized rescue vehicles that modernized emergency interventions in the 20th century. Some alarm bells from the Seine-et-Marne barracks, for instance, are believed to have been made from metal recovered from Napoleonic cannons melted after the great military parades in the Forest of Fontainebleau. Between rescue tools, copper fire hoses, and carefully crafted miniatures, each piece showcases the ingenuity of the artisans and technicians who shaped rescue equipment through the ages. Curious about what awaits you on site during this week-end of festivities? Read on for the program of activities planned for the event.
Firefighters: Then and Now
Come explore the world of firefighters!
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For two unforgettable days, dive into the fascinating universe of firefighters through immersive exhibitions and live demonstrations.
### What’s on the agenda :
• Firefighting Museum : Explore 540 m² of exhibits dedicated to the history and equipment of firefighters. A true journey into their daily life.
• Visit to the Fire and Rescue Center : Discover the behind-the-scenes of these heroic interventions, with the chance to witness live demonstrations.
• Intervention Demonstrations :
o Road rescue drill (daily at 11:00)
o Showcasing specialized vehicles for wildland firefighting, animal rescue, rope-based operations, and search-and-clear missions.
• Firefighter Path : Test your skills in an artificially smoky space, equipped with a breathing apparatus, and experience the feel of real training.
### And much more for kids and grown-ups alike!
A must-attend event for enthusiasts, the curious, or families seeking a thrill!
Participation requirements: Free | No reservation required
Hours: Saturday, September 19, 2026, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Sunday, September 20, 2026, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
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Dates and Opening Time
From September 19, 2026 to September 20, 2026
Location
Fontainebleau Firefighters Museum
2 Place Orloff
77300 Fontainebleau
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