A trip to Provins is pretty special, but we were lucky enough to go during the big Medieval Festival. This town is such a great setting for such a festival because it is almost as if time has not passed. Normally, there are many typical shows and reinactments, but the festival is special because if you dress in Medieval garb, your entrance fee is waived. I was surprised at how much of an incentive this was in France. There were a few who put forth the minimum effort to save a few bucks...but most went all out from men in tights to girls with exceptionally long hair to men in full suits of armor. If you don't have armor and you were wondering where you could score some...it is for sale in Provins! Swords too. UNESCO is right...the festival is a great way to take in the city. The day culminated with a Medieval dance party in the square...and EVERYONE KNEW THE DANCES! It was really interesting to see, and distracted me from feeling left out for not knowing the moves.
Provins can be reached by train from Paris from Gare de l'Est. The main medieval festival is held in June. If you can't make the festival, there are some medieval "specticles" (shows) to enjoy.
