Festival Châteaux & Légendes

The festival “Châteaux & Légendes”, organized by the European Collectivity of Alsace, invites visitors to discover Alsatian castles through the lens of fantasy, blending heritage, imagination, and artistic practice.
Alsace, a land of castles par excellence, is home to around one hundred medieval fortresses, endless sources of tales, myths, and legends.
Under the artistic direction of John Howe, concept artist for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the festival aims to re-enchant these sites by bringing medieval and contemporary imaginations into dialogue.
The 2026 edition, titled “Le Chant des Pierres” (“The Song of Stones”), will highlight creatures of the earth (stone giants, kobolds, dwarves, gnomes…), echoing the rich geology of the Upper Rhine region. For one day, the Hohlandsbourg Castle will be transformed into a living theatre featuring performances for all ages, creative workshops, music, and combat scenes: immerse yourself in the medieval world of castles and let yourself be carried away by the “Song of Stones”.

1. Ongoing activities
The Candice Mack Make-up School offers an artistic face-painting stand for children and adults. Colour, imagination, and professional expertise come together, using safe, skin-friendly products for a fun and worry-free experience.
With Lames d’en Temps, step into the atmosphere of a medieval camp: battles, camp life, demonstrations, and workshops throughout the day. Between weapons and armour, traditional games, and siege machines, visitors of all ages can discover, try, and take part in the activities offered by the association.
Stone Art, a professional sculptor, carves stone live: techniques, tools, and craftsmanship are revealed throughout the day on red or white sandstone. A stone engraving workshop is also available, with a creation to take home.
A cartography workshop with Les Mondes de Lundazepa: every epic quest needs a treasure map to guide adventurers through forests, mazes, and hidden villages. This creative workshop invites participants to become adventure cartographers and craft the essential artefact of any journey. (From age 8, subject to availability.)
2. Shows
• 11:00 am and 3:00 pm: “The Wild Wedding of Biergottsaubersheim” by Caravane des illuminés avertis • 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm: Combat scenes by Lames d’en Temps
Information at: www.chateau-hohlandsbourg.com