Fête du Trône

About

The Fête du Trône is one of France's oldest and largest funfairs, transforming the Bois de Vincennes into a magical wonderland of rides, games, and traditional carnival excitement for over 1,000 years. This spectacular spring celebration features over 350 attractions ranging from vintage carousels to thrilling modern rides, making it an unforgettable experience for families visiting Paris. The festive atmosphere combines classic French fair traditions with contemporary entertainment, offering something special for every age group.

What to Expect

Families will find themselves immersed in a vibrant carnival atmosphere spanning acres of parkland, with colorful rides, game stalls, food vendors, and live entertainment filling the air with music and laughter. Expect everything from gentle kiddie rides and classic merry-go-rounds to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and fun houses. The fair maintains a traditional European funfair charm with modern safety standards, featuring both nostalgic attractions like bumper cars and shooting galleries alongside contemporary thrill rides. Crowds can be substantial, especially on weekends and Wednesday afternoons when French schools are closed, but the expansive layout means there's plenty of room to explore.

Highlights for Kids

• The spectacular Grande Roue (Ferris wheel) offering breathtaking views over Paris and the Bois de Vincennes
• Traditional French carousels with beautifully hand-painted horses and classic organ music
• Barbe à papa (cotton candy) and churros stands creating irresistible sweet aromas throughout the fairgrounds
• Thrilling roller coasters and spinning rides for adventurous kids seeking excitement
• Classic carnival games where children can win plush toys and prizes

Pro Tips for Families

1. Purchase ride tickets in booklets (carnets) rather than individually to save money—look for special offers on discount days, typically Wednesdays when rides are often reduced by 30-50%
2. Visit during weekday afternoons to avoid the largest crowds, or arrive right at opening time on weekends for shorter wait times on popular rides
3. Bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes as fair facilities can be basic, and have cash on hand since not all vendors accept credit cards, though ATMs are available on-site
4. Download the Metro app or have a Paris transit map ready—the nearest Metro stop is Porte Dorée (Line 8), which requires about a 10-minute walk through the park to reach the fair entrance

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons offer the best balance of manageable crowds and pleasant atmosphere, particularly Tuesday or Thursday from 2-6pm. Wednesday is the most popular day due to French school schedules and discounted ride prices, so expect larger crowds despite the savings. For the best experience, arrive early on weekend mornings (right at opening around noon) when lines are shortest, or visit during the final week of the fair when attendance typically drops. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings unless you enjoy a bustling, energetic atmosphere, as these are peak times for locals and can be extremely crowded.

Food & Drinks

The fair features dozens of food vendors offering classic French carnival treats alongside international options—expect crêpes, gaufres (waffles), churros, barbe à papa (cotton candy), pommes d'amour (candy apples), and frites (French fries). Hot food options include merguez sausages, rotisserie chicken, and pizza, while drinks range from fresh-squeezed lemonade to soft drinks and beer for adults. Prices are typical for fair food (€3-8 per item), and while there are picnic areas in the surrounding Bois de Vincennes, outside food isn't generally brought into the fairgrounds. Look for stands offering combo deals, and be prepared for kids to request multiple treats throughout your visit—the aromas are impossible to resist!

Parking & Access

The fairgrounds in Bois de Vincennes are best accessed via public transportation, with Metro Line 8 (Porte Dorée station) being the most convenient option, requiring a 10-minute walk through the park. Alternatively, take RER Line A to Vincennes station for a slightly longer walk. Street parking exists around the park perimeter but fills quickly on weekends; paid parking lots are available near Porte Dorée and Château de Vincennes. The fair pathways are generally stroller-accessible on main routes, though crowds and uneven ground in some areas can be challenging—consider bringing a lightweight umbrella stroller rather than a bulky model. English signage is limited, but fair staff at ride entrances typically understand basic English, and the visual nature of the attractions makes navigation straightforward.