Want to visit a medieval town for a weekend like no other? Head over to Mantes-la-Jolie in the Yvelines, which is hosting a medieval festival with numerous free activities on the 22nd and 23rd of November. We'll reveal the program, part of the celebration of the Onion Fair.
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Celebrating the 574th Onion Fair
But have you ever heard of the Onion Fair ? This grand annual event brings together a multitude of vendors – traveling merchants – from all corners of France to set up shop in the main streets of various towns. You can buy all sorts of goodies : from onions (of course), but also clothes, shoes, cosmetics, decorations, drinks, delicious treats, fruits and vegetables, and even new technologies. This age-old event is celebrated in Berne, Le Mans, Tournon, Givet, and Mantes-la-Jolie, and for its 574th edition, this charming town in Yvelines transforms its city center into a medieval village filled with dozens of activities.
A Chivalrous Program
Starting from Friday, November 22, Mantes-l...a-Jolie will be immersed in the medieval period with a multitude of activities starting at 5 PM. The Musée de l'Hôtel-Dieu will open its doors for a self-guided tour, accompanied by a historical presentation and a medieval makeup workshop, accessible to everyone. The city’s alleys will come alive with theatrical and musical parades, led by the companies Touches d'Histoires and Sonata Ferox. On the forecourt of the Collegiate Church, a torchlit tour will provide a unique opportunity to rediscover this iconic location under a new light. Food lovers will also be able to savor medieval-inspired dishes at the auberge de Montmirail.
On Saturday, November 23rd, a grand medieval market will set up in the town starting at 10 AM: artisans and merchants will fill the streets for the Onion Fair, offering a wide range of local products and delights.
crafts. In the artisans' village, visitors will have the chance to discover trades like woodturning, calligraphy, and stained glass creation. There will be demonstrations of medieval combat, organized by La Maison des Fers Croisés and the Confrérie du Vexin, as well as a workshop to become a knight that will delight the younger ones. You've got it! The program – fully available here – is not exactly a walk in the park… much like life in the Middle Ages. You asked for it!et si on allait voir la vidéo de nota bene au musée de l’hôtel Dieu à la foire médiévale de mantes…… pic.twitter.com/bFYMIbdfGB
— jessy (@hoodevoid) November 10, 2024
The Medieval Festival of Mantes
1, rue Thiers - Mantes-la-Jolie (78)
On November 22 and 23, 2024
More info
