Following the success of the 40th anniversary in 2025, it's time to mark your calendar for the 41st edition of the Provins Medieval Festival, set to take place on June 13 and 14, 2026. Over these two days, the medieval town of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, will transform into an open-air stage, recreating the lively atmosphere of the historic Champagne Fairs of the 12th and 13th centuries. Come discover this gem in Seine-et-Marne for an immersive journey into the Middle Ages, just an hour from Paris.
If you're looking for a fun family outing that immerses you in history, don't miss this must-see event. The Provins Medieval Festival is celebrated as the largest medieval festival in France, drawing thousands of visitors each year eager to explore this exceptional heritage. The town of Provins, once the capital of the powerful Counts of Champagne, has preserved its medieval charm with impressive ramparts, the César Tower, and its charming cobblestone streets.
This weekend's medieval-themed event features artisans and vendors scattered throughout the city, eager to showcase their historical crafts. As you wander through the streets, you'll encounter troubadours, street performers, minstrels, and crowd entertainers, all offering a timeless experience. History enthusiasts and medieval aficionados will be delighted to explore traditional crafts such as leatherworking, fine textiles, blacksmithing, pottery, woodturning, and medieval musical instruments.
The festival is themed around four different worlds that will delight visitors of all ages. The Arts of War section will transport you to the world of knights, featuring historical combat demonstrations and period games. The Days of Celebration will have you dancing to lively medieval music. Everyday Life offers a glimpse into old-time trades and artisans' craftsmanship. Lastly, Fears and Beliefs will immerse you in the fantastical and mystical side of the Middle Ages, complete with legendary creatures.
Enjoy a family day out with a variety of medieval games such as quoits, skittles, and wooden sword fighting. Street performances keep the excitement going all weekend long, offering captivating entertainment for visitors of all ages. Kids can take part in workshops and listen to passionate storytellers bring medieval legends to life.
One of the must-see classics is the traditional medieval ball on the Châtel Square, a magical gathering where you can dance as if you're back in the Champagne fairs. On Saturday evening, a lively medieval festival concert will cap off the first day in a festive and authentic atmosphere. The Saturday night session allows visitors to enjoy the celebration until midnight.
On Sundays, the must-see parade featuring over 700 people in medieval costumes winds its way through the city, offering a spectacular and vibrant show. This parade draws historical reenactment groups from across France and even from other parts of Europe, creating a lively, moving tableau of the Middle Ages. An emotionally charged highlight that leaves a lasting impression and truly transports spectators back in time.
Throughout the weekend, jousts and knightly tournaments take center stage, featuring daring equestrian feats and spectacular battles that continue to captivate audiences. Falconry shows also add a touch of enchantment, with majestic birds soaring gracefully above the city.
The medieval town of Provins is located in Seine-et-Marne, approximately 90 kilometers southeast of Paris by road, about an hour's drive from the capital. Several free parking areas are available around Provins, with free shuttle buses running between these parking lots and the festival. On Saturdays, shuttles operate from 9:15 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., and on Sundays from 9:15 a.m. to 7 p.m., with departures every 20 minutes.
For food options, over 70 fixed and temporary vendors are scattered throughout the Medieval city. You'll find everything from regular restaurants to taverns and medieval-style stalls serving period-specific specialties. If you'd rather bring your own meal, picnic in the historic city walls — although no dedicated picnic areas are specifically set up for the event.
The estimated prices for the 2026 edition are as follows. When purchasing tickets online in advance, expect to pay €12 for a one-day pass and €16 for a two-day pass. At the gate, these prices increase to €13 for a single day and €18 for the full two days. Good news for families: children under 12 get free entry. People with disabilities also enjoy free admission, including their accompanying caregiver.
A little extra treat: come dressed in full medieval attire, and you'll enjoy a discounted rate of €9 for a single day or €12 for two days. Make sure your costume is complete—from footwear to headgear—to qualify for the discount. Fantasy costumes are also welcome—after all, what would the Middle Ages be without its legends and mythical creatures? Residents of Provins can benefit from two free passes per household.
Be sure to book your tickets online to skip the lines and get into the festivities faster. Purchasing your tickets in advance online saves you time on the day of the event. Detailed information and the ticketing platform can be found on the official Provins Tourism website.
Given the overwhelming popularity of the event, which draws thousands of visitors annually, it’s highly advisable to book your accommodation in Provins and nearby areas as soon as possible. Many hotels, bed and breakfasts, and gîtes offer special packages for the Medieval Festival weekend. Some establishments, such as the Hôtel Aux Vieux Remparts, even offer all-inclusive deals that include lodging, meals, and admission to the festivities.
For those eager to extend their medieval adventure, it's the perfect opportunity to explore other must-see attractions in Provins such as the César Tower, the mysterious underground tunnels, the Dime Barn, the illuminated city walls at nightfall, or the ongoing displays of medieval combat and falconry that take place from spring through autumn.
Provins has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 13, 2001, recognized as the only remaining example of a medieval trading town from the Champagne Fairs of the 12th and 13th centuries. This international recognition highlights the exceptional value of Provins, which has successfully preserved its medieval charm. The town boasts 58 monuments that are officially registered or classified as Historic Monuments, making it one of the most representative medieval sites in France.
The ramparts of the upper town stretch for 1,200 meters and feature 22 towers of varying designs, built between 1226 and 1314. Today, they stand as the best-preserved section of the medieval fortifications and are a major draw for visitors. The César Tower, emblematic of the power of the Counts of Champagne, overlooks the city and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding region. Beneath the surface lie medieval underground passages, labyrinthine tunnels that add an intriguing, mysterious layer to the experience.
In the 12th and 13th centuries, Provins was the bustling hub of European trade, with its local currency, the Provins denier, accepted across the continent. At the time, it ranked as France’s third-largest city after Paris and Rouen. The Champagne Fairs held here connected Northern Europe to the Mediterranean world, transforming Provins into a key center of international commerce.
Mark your calendars now for June 13 and 14, 2026, and make sure not to miss the 41st edition of the Provins Medieval Fair. While the full program will be announced in the coming months, stay tuned to the event’s social media channels on Facebook and Instagram so you won’t miss any updates. It’s a wonderful cultural and festive outing to enjoy with family or friends in one of France’s most stunning medieval towns.
The Médiévales de Provins will take place on June 13 and 14, 2026, in the historic town of Provins, Seine-et-Marne (77). The festivities kick off at 9 a.m. on both days, with a special nighttime event on Saturday extending until midnight. For more details and to make reservations, visit the official website Provins Tourism.
Provins, Île-de-France's largest medieval city, with many treasures to discover
In Seine-et-Marne, just a few kilometers from the capital, lies the medieval town of Provins, a testimony to its trading past and lively fairs. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town straight out of the Middle Ages is brimming with historical treasures, from the Tour César to its rose-based culinary specialties, not to mention its imposing ramparts! [Read more]
Embark on a journey as knights and princesses at medieval festivals in 2026, or stroll through centuries-old fortifications across the region. In Île-de-France, numerous towns and castles—with roots dating back to the Middle Ages—offer a glimpse into history and heritage preserved through the ages. [Read more]
Discover the medieval villages of the Île-de-France region, real heritage gems less than 1h30 from Paris. From Provins to Moret-sur-Loing, these historic towns transport you back to the Middle Ages all year round. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From June 13, 2026 to June 14, 2026
Location
Medieval town of Provins
4 Chemin de Villecran
77160 Provins
Prices
- 12 ans: Free
Billet réduit pour les costumés: €7
2 jours costumés: €10
€13
2 jours: €18
Recommended age
For all
Official website
provins-medieval.com
Provins, Île-de-France's largest medieval city, with many treasures to discover
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