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Next to Lille, this giant night show will turn an abbey into a medieval setting!

undefined undefined 7 mai 2026 undefined 17h00

The Editor

IA

Want to switch up your usual outings? At the end of May, a historic venue just a stone's throw from Lille will completely transform for two special evenings.

Among knights, fire, and music, the 800th anniversary of the Abbey of Marquette is shaping up to be one of the most spectacular spring events in the metropolis.

800 years of history come to life

On May 29 and 30, 2026, head to Marquette-lez-Lille to celebrate the 800 years of the Abbey of Marquette with an immersive, large-scale performance. This is the kind of event that you won't want to miss! As night falls, the abbey's ruins transform into the backdrop for a historical show centered around Jeanne de Flandre, the iconic figure behind the place. It's like a real time machine, but outdoors!

An XXL show featuring knights and fire breathers

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On stage, it’s all set to be exciting: equestrian jousts, sword fights, dancers, musicians, actors… all brought to life with incredibly detailed decorations and costumes. Behind this project, over 150 passionate volunteers (including the BLAC association) are working hard to make history come alive as a true living performance. The result? An immersive tapestry that blends local heritage with spectacular staging. And to get you in the mood even before the curtain rises, a grand ball is scheduled for 8:30 PM. Yes, absolutely.

A place steeped in history rediscovered in a new light

Founded in 1226 by Jeanne de Flandre, the Abbey of Marquette was once one of the most important in Europe before gradually fading from memory. Today, its ruins, nestled between Marquette, Saint-André, and La Madeleine, serve as the backdrop for this remarkable revival. A pretty amazing way to bring life back to history!

It’s a heritage that we don’t always take a close look at.

An event not to be missed

With 2500 spectators expected, only two performances, and an atmosphere that promises to be quite unique, this is definitely one of the major cultural events of May in the metropolis. And between us, seeing a historical show outdoors, just a few minutes from Lille, is a refreshing change from classic evenings.

Site of the ruins of the Marquette Abbey, Rue de la Fontaine, Marquette-lez-Lille
Friday, May 29 & Saturday, May 30, 2026
Reservations here