The Orléans Loire Festival is Europe’s largest gathering of river navigators and a must-see event for anyone looking to discover this exceptional display of living heritage.
The must-see Festival de loire event
Every 2 years since 2003, the Festival de Loire d’Orléans has welcomed you for an authentic experience at the heart of the Loire’s culture and art of living. For 5 days, you can immerse yourself in the world of European river shipping.
Every year, sailors from other waterways moor their boats on the quays of Orléans to enjoy the unique experience of the Festival de Loire. It’s an opportunity for visitors to discover their culture and know-how.
Festival de la Loire: a full agenda
The Festival de Loire wouldn’t be so legendary without its unmissable festivities. For 5 days, the quayside is alive with entertainment, much to the delight of participants and visitors alike.
From boatmen’s songs to concerts, street shows, fireworks displays and gastronomic discoveries, the festive and friendly atmosphere of the Festival de Loire is guaranteed!
A real opportunity to discover and share, take advantage of the many events on offer to find out more about the heritage of the Loire. Nautical demonstrations, boat trains, regattas, jousts, fishing net throws and rowing races are on offer to visitors every year. It’s a chance to step back a few centuries, to a time when the quays of Orléans were teeming with activity.
For younger visitors, there are educational activities and workshops to help them discover navigation. Open to all generations, the Festival de Loire welcomes you to come and spend some quality time with your family!
Eating out at the festival de loire
Nearly forty stands will be on hand to help you discover the gastronomy of the Loire Valley and sample the specialities of the Loire. And if you fancy lunch, dinner or just a drink on the banks of the Loire, there are several guinguettes waiting to welcome you!
In memory of the legendary Port of Orléans
One of the most important ports in France, the Port of Orléans welcomed almost 11,000 boats to its quays every year. On the banks of the royal river, it was an essential commercial crossroads where a wide range of goods – wheat, salt, wine, etc. – passed through before being transported to Paris. The famous vinegar of Orléans was born thanks to the wines that sometimes arrived ‘piqued’ after a long journey.
The port of Orléans gradually ceased to operate when the railways came into being, but its locks, towpaths and quays are still there to bear witness to its past activity. This is an opportunity for the Festival de Loire to bring the legendary river port of Orléans back to life for a few days of festivities.
Your questions:
Is the Festival de Loire free or chargeable?
The events and shows on offer as part of the Festival de Loire are entirely free of charge.
Is the Festival de Loire accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Adapted facilities will once again be deployed to provide the best possible welcome for people with disabilities, guaranteeing an inclusive and enjoyable festive experience for everyone.
Is it possible to eat on site?
The flavours of the Loire region will be on display at the gastronomic stands, where you can sample local produce in a convivial atmosphere.
Discovering Orléans
After enjoying the Loire Festival, take a stroll and discover the different facets of the city of Orléans. You’ll discover its pedestrianised streets, its small and large squares, its gardens, its museums and even its cathedral. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the city’s treasures!
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