Herbignac Medieval Camp Draws Record Crowds, Announces Expanded 2026 Event
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The medieval encampment in Herbignac, France, continues to grow in popularity, attracting 3,100 visitors in 2025 and setting the stage for an even larger event next year.
Herbignac’s cultural and leisure Association (ACLH), the organization behind the annual event held at the Castle of Ranrouët, recently reported a successful 2025 edition, marked by both stable attendance and improved financial performance. According to ACLH President Jean-Anne Guihéneuf, the encampment remains a beloved attraction. “The medieval encampment is always popular with the public,” she stated. “3,100 visitors visited the meadow and the paths of the castle in 2025, compared to 2,945 in 2024, confirming the growing attractiveness of the event.”
Financial Recovery and Volunteer Support
The 2025 event not only saw an increase in attendance but also achieved financial balance, recovering from a loss incurred in the previous year. This turnaround is attributed to the dedication of 130 volunteers who assisted in welcoming visitors, artists, and performers, as well as the continued support of attendees.
A Two-Day Immersion in Medieval Life Planned for 2026
Building on this success, the ACLH is planning a significantly expanded event for 2026, extending the encampment to two full days. The 2026 edition will feature a richer program designed to fully immerse visitors in medieval daily life.
On Saturday, August 1, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., an artisanal village will be established, showcasing a diverse range of traditional crafts. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness demonstrations in woodworking, lace making, pottery, stained glass artistry, carpentry, blacksmithing, cutlery, saddlery, ironwork, cob and stone cutting, and more, all led by skilled artisans dressed in authentic period costumes.
Sunday, August 2, will be dedicated to spectacular displays of medieval entertainment, running from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The program will include equestrian jousting, armored combat, juggling performances, and storytelling by troubadours and storytellers, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of grand medieval tournaments.
Call for Community Involvement
The ACLH is actively seeking partnerships with local businesses and additional volunteers to support this flagship regional event. “This is a unique opportunity to join a growing cultural and festive project,” a spokesperson for the association noted. The ACLH emphasizes its commitment to fostering conviviality, discovery, and community engagement through its cultural and festive events in Herbignac.
For updates and information on the medieval camp and the ACLH, visit their Facebook page: ACLH -Association Culturelle et de Loisirs d’Herbignac.
