The Night of the Forest 2026 in the Forest of Versailles, featuring free workshops, games and walks.

The Nuits des Forêts 2026 invite themselves into the Yvelines (78), and more precisely into the Versailles state forest, in Porchefontaine. For the second year running, the Versailles-based association Pachamama joins this national festival to present a four-day program: on June 9, then June 19–21, 2026, at the Fontaine des Nouettes. Creative workshops, nature-led walks, circus, meditation and outdoor games make up this event designed for both kids and adults.

The seventh national edition of the festival runs from June 5 to 21, 2026, across more than 250 sites throughout France, under the theme “Listening to the living.” In Versailles, the local venture is led by the Pachamama association. Founded by Marie and Elise to connect residents of the Porchefontaine neighborhood, the group champions initiatives focused on circular economy and environmental awareness. Its name nods to Mother Earth in Andean mythology, setting the tone: we’re here to reconnect with the living world, not to march.

We’ve sifted through the program, and there’s truly something for everyone. The Porchefontaine Forest, a stone’s throw from the Palace of Versailles and its grounds, transforms during these days into an open-air discovery space. The meeting point is the Nouettes fountain, easily reachable from central Versailles, and you’re advised to arrive 15 minutes before each workshop.

What’s on at Versailles’ Night of the Forests on June 9?

The opening evening on June 9, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. will feature a sound and sensory workshop titled “Being a Bird,” led by two composers. Participants will explore perceiving their surroundings through sound and vibrations, culminating in the collective creation of a shared soundscape. The workshop is open to everyone, but registration is required.

What to do during June 19–21, 2026?

Friday, June 19, 8:00–10:00 p.m.

• Dinner under the canopy : a shared plant-based meal in the heart of nature, surrounded by trees and birdsong. For ages 18 and up; registration required.

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Saturday, June 20 (10:00–18:30)

• Educative walk on forest management (10 h-12 h): offered by the National Forests Office, this guided stroll takes you into the daily work of those who safeguard ecosystems. For ages 16 and up.
• Deep Time Walk (14 h-18 h): a 4.6 km guided by a physicist-mediator, where every meter traveled represents millions of years of Earth's evolution. For ages 16 and up.
• Collective mandala in the forest (15 h-16 h 30): a family land-art workshop to create a temporary artwork together using leaves, mosses and twigs. For ages 8 and up.
• Exhibition "Whispers of the Forest" (15 h-18 h): discover fauna and flora with free access. For ages 2 and up.
• The Clearing for Little Creators (15 h-18 h): a nature-inspired family creative workshop, free access. For ages 2 and up.
• Mini-orienteering Course (15 h-18 h): a family activity to explore the Nouettes fountain, equipment provided on site. For ages 2 and up.
• Piano in the Forest (15 h-18 h): a free, exploratory performance open to everyone.

Sunday, June 21 (9:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.)

• Birdsong Walk (9:30-11:30): a poetic stroll to learn how to identify forest birds, organized by the Super Egg association. For ages 14 and up.
• Big Orienteering Challenge (10:30-11:30): playful and non-competitive, to (re)discover the Porchefontaine forest. For ages 8 and up.
• Suspended Circus (11:45-12:15): the Alto company offers a moment of grace with an artist suspended among the trees. All ages welcome; please bring a mat.
• Shared Picnic (12:30-14:30): everyone brings their meal and the forest supplies the ambiance. A convivial moment, naps beneath the trees welcome.
• Treasure Hunt (14:30-16:30): a fun, nature-focused family stroll hosted by Fans de forêt to help you recognize trees and explore the forest through the senses. From age 3; about 2 km, stroller-free.
• Ode to Silence (14:30-15:30): a meditative, immersive experience that invites you to be touched by the trees and to soothe the nervous system.

How to register for the Versailles Forest Nights 2026?

All activities take place at the Fontaine des Nouettes, in the Porchefontaine forest, Versailles. Registrations are open through the HelloAsso page of the Pachamama association, with affordable rates and pay-what-you-can, mindful pricing options designed to keep the program accessible to as many people as possible. For the busiest days, especially Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June, it’s best to book in advance as spaces are limited.

This event welcomes families, woodland lovers, and anyone seeking a refreshing break just a stone's throw from Versailles, whether you're after a spark of discovery, a touch of calm, or simply a great outdoor moment.