Events in Versailles

Everyone knows of Versailles as the fabulous Palace, with unending gardens, hall of mirrors and incredible architecture.  But did you know that as well as visiting the palace and gardens during the day, you can also attend evening events?  It’s a great way of visiting this tourist attraction , without actually feeling like a tourist!

The Opera at Versailles:

The Royal Opera in Versailles is an absolute bijoux.     It is quite small and intimate, and lit with twinkling chandeliers.    For me, it is one of the most stunning elements in the whole Palace.     But rather than just spending a few minutes here while on a guided tour, why not take in a ballet, an opera or a concert?  In June there are performances of Swan Lake, open to the public, you just need to buy the tickets in advance.

Look closely above and you’ll see that there are boxes on the second level. This is how they look inside… The interior perfectly in line with the grandeur of the setting.

Masked Costume Ball

Every year in June there is a masked ball at the Orangerie building in Versailles. It starts at dusk with fireworks and ends at dawn with brioche and macarons in the gardens, harkening back to when parties such as these were held at the palace in the 18th century.

Possibly even more exciting than being at a ball such as this is deciding what to wear! Everyone is required to come in period costume with a mask. There are a lot of powdered wigs to be seen, along with fluttering fans.  This is a very special event, for all ages.

© Geoffrey Hubbel

Every hour or so there is a special performance that takes place on different stages placed throughout the venue. The music ranges from classical songs to modern jams to keep the party alive even in the wee hours of the morning.

The Orangerie garden is open throughout the event in case you fancy a stroll in your gown at 3am. It’s certainly a once and a lifetime event.

Saturday evenings in the Hall of Mirrors:

Every Saturday evening from June to September there is a Royale Serenade, a special tour at dusk through the King’s apartments and into the Hall of Mirrors. Along the way musicians in baroque dress bring to life the surroundings, and to finish it off, in the Hall of Mirrors, there is a performance by dancers in baroque costumes.

by Agathe Poupeney

by Agathe Poupeney

The Queen’s Theatre

It is very unusual for the Queen’s theatre to be opened to the public for a performance.  In June this year, they will show the theatrical play The Soothsayer, which will be played in French.   Even if you don’t understand every word, the unique setting would make it into a grand occasion.

On their website, you can actually search by the location of the event (Crusader’s room, marble terrace). Certainly fun! https://en.chateauversailles-spectacles.fr

Have you ever been to the opera or a concert at Versailles, or do you plan to attend one of the events at Versailles soon!  I’d love to know!