Festival Jeanne d’Arc

A Medieval Spectacle in Orléans

Every spring, the city of Orléans transforms into a living tapestry of medieval France to honor the legendary hero Joan of Arc. Over ten days from late April to early May, the Joan of Arc Festival envelops the entire city in a whirl of historical reenactments, vibrant parades, and cultural celebrations. Attracting over 150,000 visitors each year, this important event offers both locals and tourists a chance to step back in time and experience the spirit of Orléans.

Main Attractions

The Grand Parade

The main event of the festival is a grand procession through the historic streets of Orléans. Led by a young woman chosen to play Joan of Arc, hundreds of participants in meticulously crafted medieval costumes march to the rhythmic beat of drums and the melodies of period instruments. Knights in shining armor ride on majestic horses, standard-bearers wave flags, and artisans display traditional wares, while the scent of incense and the excited cheers of spectators fill the air. The parade reaches its climax at the Place Sainte-Croix, where the imposing façade of the cathedral provides a dramatic backdrop for the festivities.

The Medieval Market at Campo Santo

The old cemetery of Orléans, Campo Santo, transforms into a bustling medieval market. Wooden stalls line the paths, displaying wares and crafts from the period. The rich aromas of roasted meats, freshly baked bread, and sweet mead fill the air. Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts like candle making or watch skilled artisans demonstrate forgotten techniques. The constant chatter of haggling, the clinking of coins, and the occasional shout of a troubadour create an immersive scene that transports visitors back to the 15th century.

The Sound and Light Show at Sainte-Croix Cathedral

At night, Sainte-Croix Cathedral becomes the canvas for a breathtaking sound and light show. Titled "Joan, the Light of Art," the 18-minute show uses state-of-the-art projection mapping technology to bring the cathedral's façade to life. Vivid images dance across the ancient stone walls, telling the story of Joan of Arc and highlighting the architectural beauty of the cathedral. The booming narration and stirring music resonate through the square, drawing gasps of awe from the gathered crowd.

Culinary Delights

The festival is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Local restaurants offer special menus inspired by medieval cuisine, and market stalls serve hearty dishes like wild boar stew, freshly baked meat pies, and roasted chestnuts. The city's renowned vineyards offer their finest wines, while local breweries create special festival ales. For those with a sweet tooth, honey-drenched pastries and spiced fruit compotes provide a taste of medieval indulgence.

Cultural and Historical Background

The origins of the Joan of Arc Festival date back to the 15th century, commemorating the liberation of Orléans by Joan of Arc from the English siege on May 8, 1429. The first official celebration took place in 1430, making it one of France's oldest traditional events. Over the centuries, the festival has evolved from a simple religious procession into the grand, multi-day event it is today.

For the people of Orléans, the festival is more than just a historical reenactment. It is a profound expression of regional identity and pride, and a testament to Joan of Arc's enduring legacy. The event serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing each generation to connect with their heritage and pass on the story of Orléans to the next.

Participants Voices

I came to learn about French culture, but I never expected to have such an amazing experience. The energy of the Grand Parade is indescribable. But what touched me the most was a conversation with a local elderly woman. She told me she had once played the role of Joan when she was young and shared her memories with tears in her eyes. At that moment, I realized that Joan of Arc is not just a historical figure but still lives on in the hearts of the people of this city. This experience will greatly impact my studies.

I went to Orléans to unwind from work, and it happened to be during the Joan of Arc Festival, so I decided to check it out. What impressed me most was the medieval market at Campo Santo. The skills of the craftsmen were incredible. I tried candle making, which was much harder than I thought. But when I held the candle I made while participating in the Pobre de Mí ceremony, it felt special. It was an experience where I could feel history in my skin.

Fun Facts

The role of Joan of Arc is always played by a 17-year-old girl from Orléans, the same age Joan was when she liberated the city.
The medieval market at Campo Santo features over 200 craftsmen and attracts more than 60,000 visitors over two days.
Over 3,000 medieval-style loaves of bread are baked and consumed during the festival.
The sound and light show uses 20 high-performance projectors to cover the entire façade of Sainte-Croix Cathedral.
Over 2,000 costumed participants take part in the Grand Parade, marching across approximately 2 kilometers of the city.