Costumes, music, and local traditions set the tone for the day! The Carnival of L’Isle-Adam, in the Val-d'Oise (95), is making a lively return to the town center with a day fully dedicated to carnival traditions, free festivities, and a themed parade on March 21, 2026. Organized by the town, this festive event brings together locals, families, and visitors to enjoy , brass bands, folk groups, and the traditional ritual of lighting the effigy of Mister Carnival, spanning from the marketplace square to Parc Manchez and the streets of the town.
Starting at 10 a.m., the market square and Manchez Park become the two main hubs of the event. Visitors can hop aboard the free little train to explore the town or let the youngsters enjoy a pony ride offered by the stables of the Orée de la Forêt. These early activities set a friendly and lively tone, with music, conversations, and the first glimpses of costumes worn by attendees strolling through the paths.
The morning continues with a series of demonstrations open to everyone. Attendees can experience introductory sessions in Silat self-defense and fencing, keeping the atmosphere lively throughout the day. Several concerts also add to the event’s highlights. The Harmonie de la Vallée de l’Oise et des 3 Forêts offers a musical performance, featuring ensembles from the CMIA, with a mix of orchestral pieces, contemporary amplified music, and trumpet ensembles. The CSL Musical Comedy presents a stage demonstration, while the Red Cross shares basic first aid skills, designed to educate visitors in a simple and engaging way.
At 2 p.m., the parade kicks off through the streets of the city. Floats lead the procession, followed by folk groups and lively performances that create a vibrant spectacle. Majorettes, samba drummers, Camargue horses from Vexin, ponies from the Edge of the Forest, and a miniature train parade along the route. Carnival participants join in, swaying to the beat of marching bands, creating an atmosphere that’s perfect for both families and friends to enjoy. Around 4 p.m., the procession arrives at Park Manchez, where the festivities continue. Then, at 5 p.m., the highlight: the lighting of Mr. Carnival, a traditional ritual that brings young and old together for a symbolic and unifying moment.
From early morning, the booths set up by local associations on the market square offer a wide range of activities. Visitors can enjoy children’s games, wooden toys, a knockdown game, balloon shooting, face painting, drawing workshops, and motorcycle rides. Delicious snacks are available throughout the day, with stalls selling cakes, crêpes, waffles, bugnes, popcorn, cotton candy, as well as confetti and balloons. Food vendors run all day long, operated by the Festival Committee of L’Isle-Adam, making this family-friendly carnival even more festive. All that’s left is for you to plan your day... And have a fantastic carnival everyone!
This page may contain AI-assisted elements, more information here.
Dates and Opening Time
On March 21, 2026
Location
Isle-Adam
isle-adam
95290 Isle Adam (L')
Prices
Free
Official website
ville-isle-adam.fr
