The Renaissance Festival of the Bird King
If by chance you are in Puy-en-Velay during the 3rd weekend of September, you may get the impression that time has stood still !
The Renaissance Festival of the Bird King : a journey into the heart of the 16th century
There are no cars in the town and the locals have adopted a Renaissance lifestyle ! Each year since 1986, much to the delight of locals and visitors, the town dons its finest colours to recreate the medieval atmosphere of historic Puy-en-Velay. Plunge into the heart of the 16th century for four days of events of all kinds :
- Scenes from everyday life
- Street entertainers
- Taverns and Inns
- Music
- Dance
- Street theatre
- Tented stalls and military encampments in period dress throughout the town centre
- Renaissance Balls and market
- Archery contests
Visitors are most welcome, but woe betide anyone who says the words ‘fancy dress’! Here we are talking about costumes worthy of the period of the ‘Bird King’ made by numerous craftsmen and women in leather and other materials.
More than 6,000 people take part in the festival which brings together performers from all over Europe.
The 4 days and 3 nights of celebrations are a great opportunity for both children and adults to relive history.
High points of the Fêtes Renaissance du Roi de l’Oiseau :
- Opening Concert at the Centre Pierre Cardinal
- Grand Renaissance Market
- Renaissance balls
- Grand parade in Renaissance costume
- Children’s day
- Wrestling tournament
- Shooting contest and crowning of the ‘Roi de l’Oiseau’ (Bird King)
- The historic parade starts from the cathedral in Puy-en-Velay.
The ‘Jeu de l’Oiseau’ first appeared in Puy-en-Velay in 1524. It was a sort of contest in which participants had to shoot down a rag bird using a bow and arrow or an arquebus (type of musket). The Company of Archers and the Company of Arquebusiers had permission to fire at the bird and the winner of the contest was crowned ‘Bird King’ and best archer in the town. During his year in office, he held the keys to the town, could wear a sword, was exempt from paying taxes and had lots of other benefits.
If you don’t manage to be crowned Bird King you can always seek consolation by trying medieval drinks made from mead and hypocras spiced wine. A ‘Roi de l’Oiseau’ medal, on sale at the Office du Tourisme with a map/programme of events, gives free entry to lots of activities.
The Roi de l’Oiseau Festival is held on the 3rd weekend in September.
Our town-centre accommodation is highly sought after at this time, so remember to book a long time in advance to make sure you are at the heart of the festival in Puy-en-Velay !
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