Hello everyone!
A far cry from my first post, I want to tell you about a little trip I took to the Vendée region, specifically to the Grand Parc du Puy du Fou. I used to think this attraction only operated in the summer, but they actually host shows off-season, especially for Christmas. From late November to the end of December, several performances of the Mystère de Noël (Christmas Mystery) are held every weekend (between 3 and 4 shows each Saturday and Sunday), and even on weekdays just before December 25th.
The show lasts a little under an hour and a half, and tickets cost around €25 for adults and €17 for children under 14 (free for those under 5).
Tips on timing and accommodation
Staying with a friend who lives nearby, near the village of Les Epesses, we headed to the Puy du Fou site in the cold and dark because we had chosen the 8:30 PM Saturday night show. Because of the dry wind, we were bundled up from head to toe in big, warm clothes: Christmas atmosphere guaranteed!!
If you want to go with your family, especially with young children, you might prefer the afternoon times (shows at 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, or 5:30 PM). In any case, whatever you choose, book in advance because the Mystère de Noël is a huge hit; for our session, every seat in the Grand Carrousel where the show takes place was taken. Just so you know, the 8:30 PM show only takes place on Saturdays.
You can book your tickets, for example, via the Christmas section of the official Puy du Fou website.
For the show, you'll be seated in the Grand Carrousel: it's a covered venue of over 6,000 square meters with 3,000 seats, where the Mousquetaires du Cardinal usually performs. I mention this because I read about it in Foggy's post, Two days at Puy du Fou in the Vendée... A quick shout-out to them!
You can combine the show with various offers: dinner before or after, depending on the time and day chosen, and/or a hotel room. For the hotel package, you'll stay at a Puy du Fou property: the Villa Gallo Romaine. As the name suggests, this accommodation recreates the type of housing that existed in Roman times, in a modern version, of course.
My thoughts on the Mystère de Noël
An award-winning show
The show itself is simply incredible!
You probably know that Puy du Fou is a pioneer in show production (they've even been recognized in the United States, receiving an award where they were competing against shows from all over the world!). That probably explains why I was so blown away!!! Before your amazed eyes, several scenes unfold with dancers, actors, animals, and breathtaking sets. Plus, it's a true technological marvel: there's a water wall on which images are projected, and video is fully integrated into the show, which makes everything even more vibrant.
It's hard to talk about everything because there is so much to see, but I understand the show's success: more than 12,000 spectators every weekend! Now you understand why I told you to book ahead...
The best thing is to let you see a few clips for yourself: videos of the Mystère de Noël on YouTube
A story that tells History
The show depicts different periods of history to explain Christmas traditions to both young and old. For almost an hour and a half, you'll witness a succession of scenes that take you from the era of the Egyptian pyramids to the Roman conquest and the birth of Jesus. Everything is covered: the nativity scene, the shepherds, the star, and the Three Wise Men (with a superb parade).
The performance by the hundred or so actors on the stage, which spans over 2,500 square meters, is enhanced by the enchanting music and choirs of the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra.
Captivating magic
According to the spectators we spoke with as we left the show, the staging is perfect and ideal for diving into the magic of Christmas. The kids were thrilled, and there wasn't a dull moment. Honestly, I don't even think I managed to see everything on stage; I definitely missed some scenes. It's actually an invitation to go back!
Before or after the show, you can also stroll through the Bourg 1900 (1900 Village), which remains open. You can even warm up with a glass of mulled wine and a nice hot waffle. Likewise, you can treat yourself to a little trip into the past by visiting the 18th-century village, where you'll see artisans working and reproducing ancient techniques.
And a special mention to the actors, who are the famous "Puyfolais," the volunteers who give their time so that the show can take place, whether it's the Mystères de Noël or the Cinéscénie in the summer.
Merry Christmas to everyone!
A few words to finish. Recently, I learned there was another big show for the holiday season: the Dernier Panache. The photos look very promising, another good reason to come to Puy du Fou!
Finally, as I mentioned a few lines above, I would love to have the chance to come back in the summer: Foggy's post on the Cinéscénie really makes me want to go :)
Don't hesitate to give me your opinion in the comments!
Please note: due to major renovation work carried out during the winter season, and subsequently the Covid epidemic, the Puy du Fou Christmas shows for 2021/2022 are canceled. You can therefore opt for a visit during the summer season, or wait for Christmas 2022/2023.
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