Set up every year from April to late May on the Pelouse de Reuilly, on the edge of the Bois de Vincennes, the Foire du Trône is France's largest funfair, with several hundred rides, thrill attractions, and candy stalls spread across a vast esplanade. The tradition is said to date back several centuries, to a gingerbread fair held near the Abbey of Saint-Antoine, though the fair's current form and location mostly took shape over the course of the 20th century. The atmosphere is decidedly family-friendly by day, with rides for younger children, then livens up in the evening with the big thrill rides that draw a wider crowd, including teenagers and adults.
Allée Jean-Pierre Pernaut, named for the showpeople
One of the fair's lanes bears the name of journalist Jean-Pierre Pernaut, nicknamed "the showpeople's friend" during his lifetime for his repeated support of the fairground world, a tribute rarely paid to a media figure.
The Rivière Enchantée, a historic family attraction
This boat ride through themed scenery is among the fair's oldest attractions, loved by young children and nostalgic visitors alike.
Tips
Ride prices are charged individually and can add up quickly for a family; day or evening passes, available at the entrance or online, help keep costs down for a longer visit. The site is huge and can be tiring to cover in full; it's worth checking the map available at the entrance beforehand to pinpoint the areas that will most interest children or thrill-seekers.
