The town of Fontainebleau keeps us going late into the night with its special Night of Reading events! Join us at the theater and the municipal media library from January 24 to 25, 2026.
Since 2017, the Nuits de la lecture bring together book lovers and culture enthusiasts of all ages across France. Initiated by the Ministry of Culture, this event aims to share the joy of reading and unite passionate audiences through unique and unexpected encounters.
The Nights of Reading take place across libraries, media centers, museums, town halls, monuments, and cultural venues in major cities throughout France. Organizers there offer the public a variety of activities, from public readings and performances to creative workshops, games, and artist encounters. These Nights of Reading often provide the chance to experience some unexpected and quirky events, creating unforgettable memories that linger long after.
This is the case in Fontainebleau. The town of Seine-et-Marne is taking part in the cultural festivities. Specifically, the municipal theater and the local media library are offering a nonstop, special programming on January 24 and 25, 2026. Yes, nonstop — no time to sleep! After all, there's no better way to celebrate the Night of Reading than by coming together for a full weekend of literary festivities!
Discover what Fontainebleau has in store for you, and check out the full schedule on the town’s website: some activities are free, while others require advance booking.
The Unusual Lineup of the Night of Reading in Fontainebleau:
Municipal Theater
- 6:00 PM – "SPON YON YON" PERFORMANCE – Suitable from 6 years and up
Once upon a time, in a certain place, a tree was growing. When I say “growing,” that’s a bit of an exaggeration for such a tiny tree. And when I say “tree,” well, that’s a generous word for something so ugly that it didn’t even have any leaves. If you tugged at its trunk and let go quickly, it would make a funny “SPON YON YON YON...” sound, which was quite amusing!
The Moustache Company invites you to explore the everyday soundscapes: street noises, garden whispers... A poetic, quirky, and musical show that plays with words, sounds, and imaginations.
- 6:45 PM – COCKTAIL AT THE THEATRE BAR
A blend of city and countryside ambiance. Let yourself be guided by the sounds of the YouTubers from Le Criporteur company for a drink or two.
- 7:30 PM – ENTERTAINING BUFFET
Le Criporteur company will surprise you and whisper into your ear some quirky texts, infused with humor and fantasy, all around a buffet.
IMPORTANT: Reserve your meal now at the theatre’s box office for €15 per person (limited seats).
- 9:00 PM – IMPROV COMEDY SHOW « AL DENTE »
The Seine-et-Marne Improvisation League will host this evening with five of their performers on stage. Your task: choose a proposal based on the theme city or countryside! Some improvisations will include special constraints, at the whim of the audience. The performers have all the rights and the audience holds all the power. You suggest, they improvise!
The actors will greet you in the auditorium starting at 8:30 PM.
MUNICIPAL LIBRARY
- 10 PM – SILENT DISCO
Put on a headset, enter the community hall, and dance in silence! Our DJ Anders will have you spinning, twirling, and moving to a playlist that captures the city or countryside vibe—your choice. After dancing, you're invited to listen to texts, podcasts, or readings until dawn, if your headset still has your ear!
IMPORTANT: To borrow a headset, ID will be required.
- 11 PM – POP-CORN SCREENING
Partnered with CinéBleau, our guest film society, we’ll host a big-screen movie night followed by a discussion.
- midnight – GAMES THROUGH THE NIGHT
Join the La Mallette association for all-night fun with a variety of games: role-playing, board games, figurines—you’ll have a blast discovering both urban and rural games.
- 2:30 AM – ACTUA’LITTÉ DISCUSSION
Your favorite librarians will share a selection of their top picks about city life and rural landscapes. Bring your own favorites to share or simply relax and enjoy our stories.
- 3 AM TO 7 AM – IN THE HEART OF THE NIGHT
For those who won't sleep through the night, more surprises await.
- 7 AM – MORNING STRETCH
Swap your pajamas for comfortable clothes! Marion will lead a gentle morning workout to help you recover from the wild night or get energized for the day ahead, whether you're just waking up with us or joining us early.
- 7:30 AM – BREAKFAST
A well-deserved breakfast will be offered to everyone who spent the night with us or who joins us mid-morning.
Practical Information / Bookings:
- All activities are free and open to the public, available on a first-come, first-served basis, except for the buffet, which requires a reservation and payment through the Theatre’s ticketing system.
- Create your evening your way by choosing one or more time slots, or go all out and enjoy the entire night until dawn!
- To keep going through the night, sweet and savory snacks will be available, and a rest area will be accessible at all times.
- Don’t forget to bring a mat, sleeping bag, and pajamas! Casual or outdoor attire is perfectly welcome!
For more adventures in Seine-et-Marne, check out our guides for exploring and having fun.
What to do in Seine-et-Marne (77)? Heritage, good addresses and activities, ideas for outings
Would you like to conquer the heritage of the Île-de-France region? We'll take you on a tour of places to visit and things to do in Seine-et-Marne. [Read more]
What to do in Seine-et-Marne (77)? Heritage, good addresses and activities, ideas for outings
