If you reside in Yvelines or are planning to head there, the festival Nuits des Forêts 2026 is a date to circle. From 5 to 21 June, the department of 78 rolls out a diverse lineup of events to celebrate our forests and raise public awareness of their importance. Let us guide you through this fresh programme, which promises a true nature-filled adventure at the heart of the outdoors.
The Nuits des Forêts is a one-of-a-kind festival that invites visitors to rediscover the forest through a sensitive, immersive lens. Over roughly ten days, meetings are organized with the people who maintain and safeguard our woodlands. The program features performances, art exhibitions, and unusual, immersive experiences, by day and by night. Note: be sure to register in advance for activities that require it!
Using nets, magnifying boxes, sheets and spotlights, come discover nocturnal life at its tiniest scale. We promise, we won’t be looking at mosquitoes alone!
Can you read and speak the language of the forest? A cracked hazelnut, a footprint on the ground, a birdsong… Learn to spot and interpret all the clues—visible or not—left by the forest’s inhabitants. As you stroll, get acquainted with this (not so) discreet people!
As a team, follow the trail of the druid Sylvaticus. Navigate the forest, crack puzzles about woodland life, and tackle light-hearted yet physical challenges: your objective is to win the game and save the threatened forest. It’s all the ingredients of a giant nature game in the woods, presented as a team-building experience. An adult route of about 4 km, with four 90-minute sessions spread through the day.
To become familiar with the forest and its nocturnal wildlife, whether solo or with family, young or old, this outing includes a night under the stars (no tent) in the heart of the woods, promising brand-new sensations and an unforgettable experience.
Pack a sleeping bag suited to the forecast temperatures, a ground mat, water, and your meals.
A festive, nature-filled foray into the forest.
As night falls, join a guided walk through the Marly Forest to discover about a dozen ponds. Quiet moments will let us listen to the life of this land-and-water ecosystem. Please wear sturdy walking shoes, dress warmly, and bring rain gear if needed. A flashlight or headlamp will be handy for the way back.
An Evening Exploring Local Flora and Fauna
Across pine forests, gorses, oaks, elms and trembling aspens, you’ll hear nocturnal wildlife come alive as night falls. The forest’s numerous ponds and small lakes shelter an exceptional amphibian population, whose chorus is sure to draw your ear.
Set off to discover the odonates! These insects, including dragonflies and damselflies, captivate with their vibrant colors and astonishing agility. Their aerial prowess makes them true aviators and formidable predators.
Join us for a playful, accessible sensory outing at the Étang de Vaubersan, where kids and grown-ups alike can discover nature through their senses and learn to experience it in a new way.
They’re lively, energetic and full of surprises—the dragonflies are out in force! From awe to learning, kids and grown-ups alike can start observing these vivid jewels of nature and better understand why protecting their habitats matters.
Make the most of twilight to glimpse the forest’s wildlife. Nocturnal predators unfurl their wings and head out in search of prey. You’ll hear the owl hoot as it marks its territory and watch the bat ballet unfold above the treetops.
Les Ecorcées is a family‑friendly, immersive walking performance set in the heart of the forest. You’re invited to join the forest rangers as a volunteer supporting conservation missions to protect the woodlands! You’ll discover this verdant temple teeming with animals and plants, as well as magical creatures tucked away among the branches… An invitation to travel through time and let your imagination roam, with this question hanging in the air: how should we live in the forest today?
Join us for family yoga in a serene natural setting that's ideal for relaxation. We'll guide you through simple exercises to reconnect with the surrounding nature.
During this walk, you’ll engage your five senses and link them to the surrounding nature. A journey into the living world whose effects linger long after you’ve finished. Each participant will leave with simple, reusable tools to use on any nature walk to restore well-being, release tension, and reconnect with nature.
At nightfall, the forest reveals a completely different side. Close your eyes and open your ears to listen as the woods wake up. Quietly, you may also spot signs of animal passage and discover their nocturnal way of life.
Nature workshops: listening to the living world.
Here's to beautiful walks in the Yvelines !
Dates and Opening Time
From June 5, 2026 to June 21, 2026
Prices
Free
Official website
nuitsdesforets.com
