The Renaissance Festival of the King of the Birds returns from September 16th to 20th, 2026 in Le Puy-en-Velay for a 41st edition placed under the theme "The New World"To prepare for your stay and make sure you don't miss any of the hundreds of activities offered over five days, the Practical Guide 2026 is now available for sale at the Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office ticket office.
Discover everything that awaits you at this exceptional edition and why the guide is the essential accessory for your visit.
The 2026 Practical Guide: your ally for fully experiencing the King of the Birds Festival
With several hundred events spread throughout the city, it can sometimes be difficult to choose. The Practical Guide – Complete Program 2026 brings together all the essential information:
- the detailed day-by-day program;
- the times and locations of the events;
- the illustrated map of the city;
- the parade routes;
- Shows and highlights not to be missed.
Available for €4 , this guide helps you plan your route and optimize your visit while supporting the organization of the Renaissance Festival.
The Shooting of the Bird: a historical tradition that remains alive
It is impossible to talk about the King of the Bird Festival without mentioning their emblematic event: the Bird Shooting.
This tradition dates back to 1524 , when the archers and arquebusiers of Le Puy-en-Velay competed to bring down the famous Papegai , a rag bird placed at the top of a mast. The winner then became King of the Bird for a year and enjoyed numerous privileges.
Today, this tradition continues with the Archery Final and the Coronation of the King of the Birds , one of the most anticipated moments of the festivities. Between demonstrations of skill, Renaissance ceremony, and the emotion of the coronation, this event is one of the festival's major highlights.
Shows for the whole family
The 2026 program offers a rich program blending history, music, theatre and street arts.
Among the must-see shows:
- the opening concert Brick to Drac ;
- the spectacular fire show Roar ;
- the traditional Vellave Wrestling ;
- the grand Renaissance balls;
- equestrian demonstrations;
- the numerous theatre, music and street performances throughout the city.
Free street performances bring the streets to life, while several major shows are available by reservation. The Practical Guide makes it easy to find schedules and venues to plan your stay.
The Renaissance Market: an immersion into the heart of the 16th century
Each year, the Renaissance Market transforms the streets of the historic center into a veritable 16th-century village.
Craftsmen, designers, producers and traders from all over France and Europe showcase their expertise in a unique atmosphere. Costumes, jewelry, leather goods, historical weapons, spices, gourmet foods, antique games and handcrafted creations allow visitors to extend their Renaissance experience.
The market is also punctuated with demonstrations, meetings with artisans and permanent entertainment that appeal to both history enthusiasts and families.
The 2026 Practical Guide is available at the Tourist Office.
Le Practical Guide – Complete 2026 Program is on sale now at the Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office ticket office, Place du Breuil.
It is the indispensable companion to discover the Renaissance Festival of the King of the Birds, organize your stay and not miss any of the major events of this 41st edition.
Join us from September 16th to 20th, 2026 in Le Puy-en-Velay for a unique immersion into the heart of the Renaissance!
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