Montlhéry's free medieval festival 2026: the program in Essonne

The Montlhéry Medieval Festival is back for its 9th edition on September 19–20, 2026, under the theme “Around the World” to mark Heritage Days. Expect equestrian shows, a medieval market, and fire-breathers, all free to attend in Essonne, at the foot of the famous Tower.

The Montlhéry Medieval Festival brings the Middle Ages to life this weekend on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, for a 9th edition themed around the fresh idea “Around the World.” Head to the Essonne (91), about thirty kilometers south of Paris, where this town, crowned by its famous Tower, turns into a genuine medieval village for a weekend. The event forms part of the European Heritage Days, and admission remains entirely free.

A Medieval Weekend: Around the World at Parc de la Souche

For this new edition, the City of Montlhéry invites us on a journey back in time, where medieval traditions, legends and living arts come together. The Parc de la Souche, the Tower and the historic center become the playground for knights, troubadours, artisans and musicians.

Every corner of the site hides a surprise, with cultural influences from across the globe that helped shape the era. Over the two days, the program shines a spotlight on spectacles and activities for all ages:

equestrian performances and trick-riding demonstrations;
concerts and medieval music performances;
juggling acts and fanciful street performances;
fire-eaters and medieval circus acts;
Dovahkiin’s camels;
a grand medieval market;
a fire show on Saturday evening;
activities designed especially for children.

Craftsmen, blacksmiths and the medieval market: what to discover on-site?

The medieval village is the other major highlight of the festival. Here you meet artisans who come to share their crafts—blacksmithing, woodworking, and textile making. Time-honored techniques remain as captivating as ever as you wander the lanes.

Participatory workshops let you get hands-on, while a medieval house being built showcases how builders in the past worked. Several dining spaces and a small bar complete the immersion, perfect for a family outing or a gathering with friends.

The Montlhéry Tower and the Prévôté Prisons to Discover

As the event runs in tandem with the European Heritage Days, the town’s historic sites also throw open their doors. The Tour de Montlhéry, a vestige of a medieval fortress that overlooks the town, is open all weekend, with free climbs to the top.

The Prisons of La Prévôté, usually closed, open up for the occasion. Guided tours of the historic center recount the history of this former fortified town, while the Maison du Patrimoine serves as the information hub to help you plan your route.

What you need to know: access, the little train, and a free program

The festival unfolds across several sites, from Parc de la Souche to La Tour, passing by the Heritage House and the historic center. To move easily between the various stops, a free little train runs from the Stetten parking lot to Parc de la Souche for the duration of the event.

The detailed program, including show times, is posted on the Town of Montlhéry website. Entry to all activities remains free and open to the public on September 19 and 20, 2026.

Our take: who is this medieval festival for?

We love this festival for its immersive atmosphere and free admission, making it a great back-to-school outing to share with family or friends, whether you’re a history buff or simply curious. Kids will easily find plenty to enjoy, from camels to knights and a fire show.

Looking to extend your journey through time? We invite you to check out our guide to the 2026 medieval festivals and medieval castles in Île-de-France, a chance to travel back in time, as well as our picks of medieval monuments to visit for the 2026 Journées du Patrimoine in Paris and Île-de-France.