Paris has museums devoted to archaeology, history, ancient and contemporary art, as you would expect. But others cover more unusual subjects, such as fashion and perfume… In this category the Musée des Arts Forains (Museum of Fairground Arts) most definitely belongs. Accessible most of the year by reservation only, for ten days during the Christmas period it invites everyone to the Festival du Merveilleux (Festival of Marvels).

 

The museum that offers all the fun of the fair

Near Bercy Village, occupying the site of some of the capital’s old cellars, you can open a door into a magical world when you visit the Museum of Fairground Arts. This place is the result of the dedication and passion of Jean-Paul Favand, a man who dedicates his life to preserving the timeless spirit of the golden age of funfairs. Old automata, merry-go-rounds, amusements and attractions from the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries; everything here will take you back to a fascinating and innocent world of fun and joy…

 

 

Magic and marvels

From December 26th, the Museum opens its doors for the Festival du Merveilleux. As usual, you can enjoy the rides and play the games, but in addition you’ll be entertained by jugglers, magicians, acrobats, storytellers, dancers and puppeteers, who will perform their wonderful acts throughout the day. This live shows in the tradition of fairground and street entertainers will take you to a world of enchantment and keep you in a festive mood in the week after Christmas Day! Head across Paris from your Hotel Doisy Etoile and visit one of the capital’s most fascinating places; the Museum of Fairground Arts. A sweet dream of another time, the Festival du Merveilleux offers an enchanted interlude in the frenzy of Christmas. When you plan your family Parisian holiday to discover this magical place, remember to book our Family Baobab rooms, perfect for the occasion!

 

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For more information:

– Musée des Arts Forains
– Festival du Merveilleux

Photo credit : © Sebastien Siraudeau

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Hotel Doisy Etoile, a 4-star boutique hotel a few steps from Champs Elysées