© Ambroise Tézenas
Did you know that King Louis XIV was famously jealous of Nicolas Fouquet’s château? Inspired by the breathtaking beauty of Vaux-le-Vicomte, the Sun King immediately commissioned his architects to draw from its design when creating the Palace of Versailles. This summer, the magnificent 17th-century masterpiece comes alive with the glow of 2,000 candles during the iconic Candlelit Evenings, held every Saturday night through September 26. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy this magical experience, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show.
An Exclusive Evening Experience
A majestic estate featuring formal French garden designed by none other than André Le Nôtre, monumental fountains, and elegant statues, Vaux-le-Vicomte feels straight out of a period drama. Every Saturday evening, the château dresses in its finest and invites visitors to step back into the grandeur of the French royal court.
The experience begins before sunset with a sensory tour of the château, enhanced by music, candlelight, and even the voice of actor Benjamin Lavernhe—our favorite member of the Comédie-Française—playing the role of Louis XIV. Inside the magnificent Grand Salon, light projections illuminate Charles Le Brun’s masterpiece ceiling, while the estate’s famous water features gradually reveal their beauty as dusk settles over the gardens.
The highlight of the evening? At 11 p.m., every guest lights a candle before the launch of the château’s dazzling gold and silver fireworks display. During the show, the voice of André Dussollier brings Jean de La Fontaine to life as he recounts to his friend François de Maucroix the unforgettable celebration that took place here on August 17, 1661.
© Toujoursenbalade.fr
A Gourmet Interlude
Several dining options are available throughout the evening. Visitors can pre-order a picnic basket (€32) to enjoy in the gardens, but the ultimate experience is dining at the seasonal restaurant, Les Charmilles.
Our recommendation? Book one of the final dinner services at 8:30 p.m. or 9:15 p.m. and enjoy a refined meal just before the fireworks. The menu features dishes such as trout with vacherin sauce, Henri IV-style chicken, sole meunière, and raspberry charlotte. The set menu costs €75, with the option to add a glass of Champagne for an additional €15. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Before the grand finale, make a stop at Le Songe de Vaux, the estate’s Champagne bar, which offers one of the most stunning sunset views of the château. Romantic? Absolutely.
© Ambroise Tézenas
How to Get There
Located less than an hour from central Paris, Vaux-le-Vicomte is easily accessible by car, with free parking available on-site.
Shuttle buses also operate from Paris Bercy, with a single departure at 4:30 p.m. and a return journey at 11:30 p.m. Round-trip tickets cost €25.
Practical Information
The Candlelit Evenings at Vaux-le-Vicomte take place every Saturday from May 16 to September 26, 2026.
Special evenings are scheduled on July 13 and August 15.
The château’s signature gold and silver fireworks display takes place every Saturday night.
- Château & Gardens admission: €22
- Gardens only: €16
- Online reservations available
© Ambroise Tézenas
