Blois (F) - Fête foraine

The Fête foraine de Blois is an unmissable event in the Loir-et-Cher department's calendar and is considered one of the largest funfairs in the Centre-Val de Loire region. Every spring, usually over three weeks in March and April, the exhibition grounds (Parc des Expositions) on the banks of the Loire are transformed into a huge, colourful leisure paradise. The festival charmingly combines the centuries-old tradition of French folk festivals with state-of-the-art entertainment technology and attracts visitors from far beyond the city limits.

The range of rides on offer is impressive and designed to cater for all ages and preferences. Adrenaline junkies will find spectacular attractions that catapult them into the sky above Blois at high speed or take them through rapid loops. At the same time, the festival retains its soul as a family event with timeless classics: nostalgic wooden horse carousels, colourful bumper cars and mysterious ghost trains are an integral part of the ensemble. For younger children, there are numerous play areas, small trains and games of skill such as duck fishing, which turn the visit into an adventure.

A visit to the Fête foraine in Blois is also always a culinary journey through the world of fairground classics. The smell of freshly fried churros (croustillons), warm waffles and crêpes wafts through the alleys between the stalls. Particularly popular are the glazed toffee apples and the huge clouds of candyfloss, which for many are the symbol of a successful day at the fair. This is complemented by savoury offerings such as sandwiches and chips, which are often enjoyed in convivial company at the bar tables.

The atmosphere reaches its peak in the evening hours, when thousands of LED lights bathe the rides in neon light and the music from the various attractions merges into an energetic soundscape. The festival serves as an important social gathering place for the city, where people of all generations come together to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of the warmer season. With special offers such as the ‘Journée à tarif réduit’ (discounted price day), the city also ensures that the fun remains accessible to all.

Travel information:

By public transport:

- By train: Blois-Chambord station (distance 2.2 km)

- By bus: Parc Expo stop (line A, N1)

By car:

- Venue: Parc Expo (Av. du Président Wilson)

Parking:

- Car parks directly next to the venue (Av. du Président Wilson)