For nearly twenty years, the village of Cugny has transformed into a lush botanical paradise for just one day a year. Celebrating its 19th edition, the Plant Festival in La Genevraye is set to open its doors again on May 14, 2026. The event will feature around sixty passionate vendors, a brand-new raffle, and, as always, free entrance and parking.
This event, which has attracted over 4,000 visitors over the years, takes place in the lush, pedestrian-friendly setting of the Cugny Hamlet, nestled in the heart of La Genevraye. Away from the hustle and bustle of major horticultural fairs, visitors experience a warm, laid-back atmosphere—true to village celebrations—driven by a shared passion: love for plants and gardens.
Nursery owners, horticulturists, passionate enthusiasts, and collectors take over the narrow lanes and courtyards of the village to showcase a wide variety of plant life: perennials, rare species, aromatic herbs, shrubs, and even garden furniture and decorations. The pedestrian route weaves its way between flower-adorned facades and open gardens, inviting visitors to stroll freely and gather invaluable tips from the exhibitors. One of the event's delights is that you leave not only with a new plant but also bursting with ideas to transform your own garden.
On the exchange front, the seed, cutting, and plant corner remains a favorite. It’s the perfect spot to pass on surplus garden goodies or pick up new varieties to grow at home, embodying the communal spirit that truly defines the event. This year, the local organization Le Genevrier is adding a new feature: a raffle with plenty of prizes up for grabs, adding an extra thrill to the day.
For a bite to eat, the Village Bistro, housed in a renovated former stable, along with artisans from the Cugny Farm, welcome visitors in their courtyard and on the Marronniers Square. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a tasty break between stalls, surrounded by an authentic setting that exudes the charm of the Seine-et-Marne countryside.
The event is traditionally held on Ascension Thursday, a public holiday perfect for a family or friends' getaway from Paris or its surrounding suburbs. La Genevraye is located roughly 70 km southeast of the capital, in a peaceful rural area close to Fontainebleau and its famous forests. A great excuse to extend the day with a walk in the woods.
The 19th Cugny Plant Festival will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the hamlet of Cugny in La Genevraye (77690). Admission and parking are free. For more details, visit the official event Facebook page or the La Genevraye town website.
