Journey into the whimsical world of antique amusement attractions at the Museum of Antique Carnival. This unique museum, opened in 1996, features the fascinating private collection of Jean-Paul Favand, an actor and antiquities dealer. The museum’s exhibits span from 1850 to 1950 and include beautifully preserved wooden carousels, nostalgic fair stalls, exhilarating German swings, and a grand Hooghuys Organ.
What sets this museum apart is the interactive experience it offers. Visitors can engage in carnival games and ride some of the antique attractions, such as the “Manège vélocipédique” from 1897. This carousel of bicycles, powered by the riders’ pedaling, provides a delightful and engaging way to connect with the past.
Visits to the museum are available by reservation or by joining one of the scheduled seasonal tours, ensuring an intimate and informative experience.
Know Before You Go: To ensure your visit, make reservations at least a week in advance, either online or by phone. The museum opens for self-guided tours twice annually during European Heritage Days (the third weekend of September) and Le Festival du Merveilleux (December 26 to the end of the year). Tours last one hour and 30 minutes, and an optional English pamphlet is available for non-French speakers.