A call to all the romantics, the history enthusiasts, and the chic picnic lovers: the most enchanting event in Île-de-France is back! Since 1980, the domain created by Nicolas Fouquet invites you to rediscover its treasures in a new light… or rather, under an old glow!
2000 candles and a 33-hectare garden
As soon as night falls, electricity fades away to make way for magic. No less than 2000 candles are hand-lit to illuminate the chateau and the French-style gardens.
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What's the program? A stroll through the 33 hectares of gardens, where the water games of the fountains sparkle under the flames. You can lose yourself in the perfect perspectives of Louis Le Vau's monumental architecture while enjoying a baroque sound ambiance that transports us straight back to the 17th century.
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Champagne, picnic, and grand finale
To jazz up your evening, you have several delightful options. The most prepared will come with their baskets for a chic picnic on the allowed lawns, while those who love comfort can treat themselves to a romantic dinner with a view of the castle. For the ultimate touch of glamour, head to the champagne bar to toast in front of the illuminated fountains.
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And because an evening at Vaux-le-Vicomte wouldn't be complete without a grand finale, the night ends with a gold and silver fireworks display lighting up the façade of the castle.
Key dates to spruce up your summer
While the candles shine every Saturday night from May 16 to September 26, a few dates stand out for a fully immersive experience. On the theme of themed evenings, the estate offers two special moments, on July 13, we celebrate National Day with a blue-white-red dress code, and on August 15, it’s time for the "White Evening" for a chic and refined picnic. Lastly, don’t miss the 2026 novelty: the immersive projection in the Grand Salon, which digitally reveals the pl...a monumental work that the artist Charles Le Brun was never able to finish.
If you're looking for the perfect getaway to break the Parisian routine this weekend, this is the place to be.
Candlelit Evenings
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte – Maincy, 77950
from May 16 to September 26
on Saturdays starting at 5:30 PM (last entry at 9:30 PM)
Special evenings on Sunday, July 13, and Friday, August 15
More info