The Endesumar Medieval Festival is right around the corner: it’s set for September 12–13, 2026 in the grounds of the Château de Rangiport Park, Gargenville, Yvelines (78). For a weekend, this stretch of the Seine Valley becomes a Viking encampment and sweeps us back to the world of Scandinavian warriors from the 9th to the 11th centuries. Organized by the Le Clan d'Ivar association, this historical re-enactment medieval festival sits just a few kilometres from Paris.
Endesumar, meaning “end of summer” in Old Norse, lives up to its name. For two days, the castle park pulses with battles, dances, and a Nordic market, all in a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a wonderful chance to discover history from a fresh angle, right in the heart of Île-de-France. A small but important tip: Endesumar comes back only every other year, so don’t miss this edition.
The program promises to be packed and runs steadily throughout the weekend. Here’s what awaits you on site:
Our top pick? Saturday night’s fire show, hands down. The performers spin flames in choreographies that lend the evening a genuinely mystical aura, echoing the old pagan traditions of the North. If you can, stay until nightfall—the atmosphere truly comes alive then.
The medieval ball on Saturday also invites you to dance to period music and fully immerse yourself in the celebration. Music, moreover, accompanies the entire weekend, reinforcing this timeless atmosphere.
Over the course of two days, you’ll encounter costumed warriors who camp on site and truly live as if in Viking times. You can explore the encampments, learn period cooking techniques, admire the outfits, and swap stories with enthusiasts always ready to share their know-how.
The Ivar Clan is a Viking historical reenactment group based in Gargenville, in the Yvelines department, founded in 2018. It brings together about twenty dedicated members who bring the Viking way of life to life through camp life, crafts, period games, and combat.
The group derives its name from Ivar Ragnarsson, better known as “Ivar the Boneless,” a famed Viking chieftain and son of the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok, who led the Danelaw conquest in 9th‑century England. Its members draw on historical and archaeological sources to faithfully reconstruct the daily life of late Iron Age Scandinavians. Their approach—educational and engaging—puts this fascinating era within reach for the public.
The festival unfolds in the park of the Château de Rangiport, in Gargenville. Built in 1727, this 18th‑century château now belongs to the town and, with its grounds, offers a green setting ideal for hosting Viking camps.
Gargenville sits in the Seine Valley, about 45 kilometers west of Paris, within the Parc naturel régional du Vexin français. By car, expect roughly an hour from the capital via the A13. The area is easily reachable from across Île-de-France for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
The festival opens its gates on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., followed by Sunday, September 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday’s hours give you plenty of time to stay for the evening and catch the fire show after dark.
As for pricing, admission is €5 for visitors over 12, and entry is free for children under 12, making it a very budget-friendly family outing. If you plan to visit on both days, the €7 weekend pass is the better option. There are no advance sales: tickets are purchased on-site on the day of your visit.
On site, a refreshment stand and food stalls offer medieval-inspired specialties, a chance to refuel between two activities and extend the day in the Viking world.
The Endesumar Medieval Festival is a family affair, from toddlers to seniors. History buffs and fans of Nordic culture will find plenty to love in authentic re-creations and enriching exchanges, while kids relish the activities, mock battles, and beginners’ sessions in archery or axe throwing. It’s also a hit with live-performance enthusiasts and anyone seeking a unique day out in the Yvelines.
One thing to keep in mind: if you imagine a traditional medieval fair with knights in armor and jousting tournaments, that’s not quite Endesumar’s spirit. The festival centers on the Viking era and Scandinavian culture from the 9th to the 11th century, and that focus is exactly what sets it apart.
Want to extend your journey through time? Discover our guide to the medieval festivals of 2026 in Île-de-France and all our ideas for things to do in Yvelines (78).
Mark September 12 and 13, 2026 in your calendars to discover this wonderful Viking celebration in the Yvelines. To confirm the latest program, a quick check on the official Endesumar Medieval Festival Facebook page is a must.
Dates and Opening Time
From September 12, 2026 to September 13, 2026
Location
Rangiport Castle
1 Avenue Victor Hugo
78440 Gargenville
Route planner
Prices
Tarifs: €5 - €7
Recommended age
For all
