The World Puppet Festival 2025 will take place from September 19 to 28 in the charming French town of Charleville-Mézières, nestled in the Ardennes region. Over ten days, this quiet historic town will transform into a vibrant hub of creativity, welcoming an audience of nearly 155,000 spectators and hosting performers from around 25 countries.
A Storied History
The roots of the World Puppet Festival (Festival Mondial des Théâtres de Marionnettes) run deep in Charleville-Mézières. Its connection to puppetry began in 1941, when a young Jacques Félix introduced puppet theatre to uplift spirits during the German occupation. This modest initiative blossomed into a global phenomenon, cementing Charleville-Mézières as the World Capital of Puppets.
The festival first debuted in 1961 and has since grown into a biennial event of unparalleled scale. Beyond the festival, Charleville-Mézières nurtures this art form through the Pôle International de la Marionnette. This facility includes the prestigious Higher National School of Puppet Arts (ESNAM) and the International Puppet Institute (IMM), making it the largest hub for puppeteers worldwide.
Adding to the town’s charm is its unique clock, The Grand Marionnettiste, which performs scenes from the medieval tale The Four Sons of Aymon every hour from 10 am to 9 pm, with a full retelling on Saturday evenings.
Why You Should Go to the World Puppet Festival 2025
The World Puppet Festival is not just an event; it’s an immersive experience in artistry and imagination. With over 250 performances spread across 50 venues, the festival showcases a vast array of puppetry styles — from classic marionettes to avant-garde interpretations. The productions appeal to all ages, offering delight for children and thought-provoking performances for adults.
As a gathering of global talent, the festival is also a celebration of cultural diversity. Artists from every continent bring their stories to life, making the event a platform for both preserving traditions and pushing artistic boundaries.
The historic streets of Charleville-Mézières come alive with street performances, workshops and pop-up shows.
The World Puppet Festival has been declared one of the Top 20 Events to Travel For by CNN Travel.
Plan Your Visit
Details of the 2025 programme will be announced in June, but now is the perfect time to mark your calendar and plan your trip. Beyond the festival, explore the rich heritage of Charleville-Mézières, savour local cuisine, and take in the picturesque landscapes of the Ardennes. Many events will be free of charge with others varying between €6 and €20.
For puppetry enthusiasts, families, or simply those seeking an extraordinary cultural experience, the World Puppet Festival 2025 promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of storytelling and creativity.
Further Information
For now, its history, and the tradition of puppetry in the Ardennes are featured on the website www.festival-marionnette.com.
Further details about The French Ardennes can be found at https://www.ardennes.com/en/.
