The French Château de Breteuil, in Choisel (35 kilometres south-west of Paris) is staging a two-day historical event called “Breteuil 1900” on 8 and 9 May, recreating the atmosphere of life at the turn of the 20th century through performances, guided visits and period entertainment.
Historical re-enactment
This may, a weekend of historical re-enactment brings the Belle Époque to life at the Château de Breteuil. On Friday 8 May, from 10:30 to 18:30, the entire estate will be taken over by the event. Actors, dancers and costumed extras will animate the gardens, the château itself and its outbuildings, performing short theatrical scenes featuring historical figures such as the majordomo Émile Carré and the couturier Paul Poiret, alongside magic lantern projections (an early forerunner of cinema).
There will also be demonstrations and introductory workshops in period dances, guided walks through the gardens, an exploration of the fashion trades of the era, and a grand Belle Époque parade. Almost all activities are included in the standard entry ticket, with no prior booking required.
An evening event on 9 May
On Saturday 9 May the event continues after dark, with a ticketed evening running from 18:00 to 22:30. Visitors will explore the château at nightfall on an hour-long route punctuated by costumed guides and historical commentary delivered by the Breteuil family themselves. The evening will also offer a chance to see the reception rooms recently redecorated by Jacques Garcia before they close temporarily.
The night ends with a Belle Époque ball in the orangery, with dancing demonstrations and workshops moving through the styles of the period.
Practical information
The daytime event on 8 May is priced at the château’s standard admission rates. The evening of 9 May is available from €19. Food is available on site, and picnics are permitted in the gardens.
The Château de Breteuil is around 35 kilometres south-west of Paris, close to the Chevreuse valley and easy to combine with a visit to the Domaine de Courson nearby, which is open for the full season until 1 November.
source: mesinfos
