Want to visit a medieval city for a weekend like no other? Direction Mantes-la-Joliein Yvelines, which is organizing a medieval festival to the many free events on November 22 and 23. We reveal to you the program, part of the celebration of the Onion Fair.
Mark the occasion of the 574th Onion Fair
But have you ever heard of the Onion Fair? This major annual event brings together a multitude of peddlers – street vendors – come from the four corners of France to settle in the main streets of different towns. We buy all kinds of things there: of the onions (of course), but also clothing, shoes, cosmetics, decorations, drinks, gourmet foods, fruits and vegetables or even new technologies. The ancestral event is celebrated in Bern, Le Mans, Tournon, Givet and Mantes-la-Jolie, and for its 574th edition, this pretty town in Yvelines is transforming its town center into a medieval village with dozens of activities.
A chivalrous program
From Friday November 22, Mantes-la-Jolie will be immersed in the medieval period with a multitude of activities which will start at 5 p.m. THE Hôtel-Dieu Museum will open its doors for a free visitaccompanied by a historical projection and a medieval makeup workshopaccessible to everyone. The streets of the city will come alive to the rhythm of theatrical wanderings et musicalsled by companies Story Touches et Sonata Ferox. On the square in front of the Collegiate Church, a flashlight tour will offer a unique opportunity to rediscover this emblematic place under a new lighting. Gastronomy lovers will also be able to taste dishes inspired by the Middle Ages at theMontmirail inn.
On Saturday, November 23, a large medieval market will take place in the city from 10 a.m.: artisans and traders will take over the streets for the Onion Fair, offering a wide range of local products et artisanal. At the artisans' village, visitors will have the opportunity to discover trades such as wood turningthe calligraphy and the creation of stained glass windows. Demonstrations of medieval fightsorganized by The House of Crossed Irons and the Brotherhood of Vexinas well as a workshop to become a knightwill delight the youngest. As you will have understood, the program – to be found in full here – is not easy… just like life in the Middle Ages. You will have wanted it.
The Medieval of Mantes
1, rue Thiers – Mantes-la-Jolie (78)
November 22 and 23, 2024
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