Nature Festival 2026: a day of nature and canoeing on the Négando marsh, in Crouy-sur-Ourcq

The Fête de la Nature 2026 returns from May 20 to 25, 2026, across France. For its 20th edition, this nationwide event invites young and old alike to rediscover biodiversity through outings, workshops, wildlife watching and free events.

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The event is for families, walkers, nature enthusiasts and visitors who want to better understand the natural world around them. The program includes nature walks, wildlife watching, activities focused on forests and living soils, and educational workshops for children and adults. Founded in 2007, Fête de la Nature emphasizes firsthand experience: looking, listening, touching and understanding natural environments, in both urban and rural areas.

Located in Seine-et-Marne, the small town of Crouy-sur-Ourcq counts the Négando Marsh among its natural treasures. Still wild and little known, the area is protected and offers lovely walks on foot, by bike or by canoe. 

What’s on at the 2026 Fête de la Nature in Crouy-sur-Ourcq:

• canoe trips, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult in the boat; minors who cannot swim must be accompanied by 2 adults in a 3-seat canoe). Suitable for ages 7 and up; participants must be able to swim at least 25 meters. Dogs are welcome, but please let us know in advance (by calling 06 14 72 93 49) to make sure a suitable canoe is available. 
• water games (activities and entertainment for all ages)
• outdoor social area, with a refreshment stand and light meals available on site 
• guided tour of the Marais de Negando, led by the CPIE des Boucles de la Marne, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (meet at Crouy-sur-Ourcq station before setting off). Booking required by email (sorties@cpie-bouclesdelamarne.fr) or phone (01 64 33 22 13)

For the guided tour, binoculars and field guides will be provided, but feel free to bring your own! For the canoe trip, please bring one mobile phone per paddling group for emergencies, worn-in closed-toe shoes (trainers should be worn without socks), insect repellent, a swimsuit or shorts, a waterproof jacket and tracksuit bottoms (in case of rain), sunscreen, a bath towel, a change of clothes and a bottle of water! Happy Nature Day to all!

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