The Houssaye-en-Brie medieval festival is back this weekend in Seine-et-Marne (77), about fifty kilometres east of Paris. On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026, several teams of historical reenactors will pitch their tents in the orchards beside the Cube hall to recreate a medieval encampment from the late 14th and early 15th century. Admission is free, and this marks the eleventh edition.
Behind this journey back in time lies the Malandrins association and its president, Michel Forest, a resident of the neighboring town of Fontenay-Trésigny. Each year, he brings together several dozen Middle Ages enthusiasts from the surrounding area and beyond, hailing from other regions of France as well. Once again this year, around sixty people in period costumes are expected.
The Seine-et-Marne region doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to medieval gatherings, from Provins to Brie-Comte-Robert, and even the nocturnal medieval fair at Fontenay-Trésigny. Yet the Houssaye gathering plays a different tune. Here, there are no stalls or market: nothing is for sale on site.
All of it is to be savored with the eyes (and the ears). The camp operates like a life-size model, where you observe daily life from six centuries ago rather than simply experiencing it. What the Malandrins prize above all are the historical reenactments, faithful and meticulously crafted, far from the carnival vibe.
The encampment blends military life with the time-honored crafts of yesteryear. Here’s what awaits you on site:
The idea is to show how people lived, slept, ate, worked and equipped themselves for battle at the end of the Middle Ages. A kind of cross-section of an era, as if we were opening an old clock to inspect its gears.
That's the weekend's little quirk: there are no fixed timetables. The sword fights break out “by feel,” in the words of Michel Forest, who is also a member of the Cercle historique trésifontain. The more visitors there are, the higher the chances of catching an engagement.
The same logic governs their progression. The outcome is known in advance, but the exchanges remain partly improvised, giving these duels a dynamic, living quality that you rarely see in precisely timed, choreographed shows.
The Medieval Festival of Houssaye-en-Brie takes place on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the gardens of Le Cube hall, Sente du Clos de la Vigne. Admission and parking are free. By public transport, Marles-en-Brie station, served by the Transilien Line P, is just a few kilometres from the village.
A quick tip: with nothing to buy at the camp, plan to bring drinks and a few snacks. And if you’re keen to catch a bout, aim for midday when the crowd is at its peak, and take your time wandering between the tents.
First, because it’s free! It’s also worth noting that this gathering has the charm of events run by enthusiasts for the curious. It’s aimed at families with kids who want an outdoor history lesson, fans of historical reenactment, and anyone who prefers watching to shopping. If you’re hoping for a big market, taverns, and scheduled performances, this isn’t the event for you. For a simple and sincere immersion into the 15th century, it’s a delightful discovery to make.
The village deserves a moment to linger. The town hall square is named for Marshal Augereau, who acquired the Château de la Houssaye in the early 19th century. Hikers can extend their day toward the nearby Crécy Forest.
Want to keep the medieval adventure going? Check out our guide to the medieval festivals and castles of the Middle Ages in Île-de-France, or head to Blandy-les-Tours, the 77 fortress that hosts the Seigneuriales every year. All our ideas for weekend outings in Seine-et-Marne are waiting for you as well.
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Dates and Opening Time
From September 26, 2026 to September 27, 2026
Location
Gardens of the Le Cube Room
le cube houssaye-en-brie
77610 Houssaye en Brie (La)
Route planner
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
