One of Europe’s biggest festivals stars some of the world’s smallest performers—puppets from around the globe. The 2025 World Puppet Festival (Festival Mondial des Théâtres de Marionnettes) returns to Charleville-Mézières from September 19 to 28, 2025.
Held in the French Ardennes, the festival has enchanted audiences for more than 60 years with its unique blend of magic. This major biennial event showcases puppetry and the performing arts on an international stage in a historic, charming setting.
Over 80 French and international companies will perform in theatres, halls, and open-air spaces across the town. The festival draws around 155,000 visitors including artists, researchers, programmers, journalists, and puppet lovers of all ages.
Expected to sell quickly
Tickets for the 2025 edition are now officially on sale and expected to sell quickly.
The 23rd edition will again feature a playful and inclusive programme with something for everyone to enjoy. As always, the action centres around the stunning Place Ducale with opening and closing ceremonies to wow the crowds.
The festival has previously been named among the world’s “Top 20 Events to Travel For.”
First launched in 1941 by 17-year-old Jacques Félix, it began as wartime entertainment to uplift local spirits. Since then, the World Puppet Festival has grown to become the world’s most important event of its kind.
Welcoming atmosphere
Each edition brings a global artistic showcase while maintaining the festival’s joyful and welcoming atmosphere.
This year, artists from across the world will transform Charleville-Mézières into the World Capital of Puppets once again. Every available performance space will host shows, exhibitions, and workshops during the ten-day celebration.
Charleville-Mézières is also home to the Pôle International de la Marionnette—an unrivalled centre for puppetry arts. This includes the Higher National School of Puppet Arts (ESNAM) and the International Puppet Institute (IMM).
Together with the festival team, they form the largest hub for puppetry arts in the world. The French Ardennes proudly claims its title as the true “World Capital of Puppets.” Many events throughout the festival are free, encouraging wide participation from all types of visitors.
Ticketed performances range in price from just 6€ to 20€, making the event accessible and family-friendly. Full ticket information and online bookings are available here:
Charleville-Mézières is only a three-hour drive from Calais and there are plenty of campsites nearby. But book up the pitch as soon as you can.
If you are not taking your motorcaravan the event is reachable via TGV high-speed trains from Paris or Lille.