Trobades Médiévales de Perpignan

Saturday 10th October 2026, 10am – 7pm

Dust off your chainmail, polish your sword and prepare to dodge the odd fire-breather. The Trobades Médiévales are back in Perpignan for a full day of knights, troubadours, medieval markets, traditional crafts and general Middle Ages mayhem.

And the setting couldn’t really be more appropriate.

From 1276 to 1344, Perpignan was the continental capital of the Kingdom of Majorca, enjoying considerable economic and population growth under Jacques II, King of Majorca and Count of Roussillon, Cerdagne and Conflent.

Much of the city’s historic architecture dates back to this golden period, including the magnificent Palace of the Kings of Majorca, while construction of the Hôtel de Ville and cathedral began during the 14th century.

So, once a year, Perpignan turns the clock back several hundred years and makes the most of it.

Four corners of medieval Perpignan

For 2026, the festivities spread across four main areas of the city centre, each offering something slightly different.

Campo Santo

This is where you’ll find the knights.

A full medieval camp brings the period back to life with traditional crafts including blacksmithing, glassblowing and pottery, alongside demonstrations of medieval cooking.

There will be knights’ duels at 11am, 2pm and 5pm, plus fire shows, medieval music and dancing throughout the day.

Place Gambetta

Fancy learning a medieval skill without having to wield a sword?

Head to Place Gambetta for demonstrations of lace-making, calligraphy, illumination, herbalism and traditional dyeing, along with street theatre.

Nearby at Place du Presbytère, you can also challenge your companions to a game of giant chess.

Place de la Victoire

At the foot of the Castillet, the medieval market takes over Place de la Victoire.

Browse artisan creations, jewellery, costumes and plenty of things to eat while musicians, performers and fantastical characters roam the streets.

Expect fire performances too. Obviously. It wouldn’t be medieval Perpignan without somebody playing with fire.

Allées Maillol

This is probably the one for families.

There’ll be a discovery farm, donkey rides, giant wooden games, medieval mini-golf and sheepdog demonstrations.

And, in possibly our favourite addition to the programme, a sweet-firing catapult will be launched at 11am, 2.30pm and 5pm.

Historical accuracy questionable. Entertainment value excellent.

Calling all little knights

Children can take part in the traditional medieval treasure hunt, following clues around four stalls in the city, solving riddles and collecting stamps along the way.

Complete the mission and they’ll earn their diploma as a preux chevalier.

The Castillet is also getting involved, with theatrical visits and lantern-making workshops at 11am, 2pm and 3.30pm. These activities cost €2 and require advance booking.

Don’t miss the grand parade

At 6pm, the day’s knights, performers, musicians and medieval characters come together for the grand parade, setting off from Allées Maillol.

And if you’re not quite ready to return to the 21st century, head to the Institut Jean Vigo at 7pm for a screening of Jacques Demy’s Peau d’âne, starring Catherine Deneuve and Jean Marais.

Entry to the film is free, although booking is recommended.

Trobades Médiévales de Perpignan 2026

Saturday 10th October
10am – 7pm
Perpignan city centre
Free entry

Activities take place around the Campo Santo, Place Gambetta, Place de la Victoire and Allées Maillol, with the grand parade beginning at 6pm.

A cracking day out for families, history buffs and anyone who has ever secretly wanted to watch two knights batter each other before being fired sweets from a catapult.