Hey parents! Get ready for a super fun weekend in Nantes on February 7th and 8th, 2026! We've found some unique, age-appropriate activities just for your 3 to 14 year olds. Highlights include discovering the secrets of the Carnival workshops, an immersive lake visit, and a charming show for younger kids. Check out the details below!
See our top picks
Carnival of Nantes Workshops Open House
Ateliers du Carnaval de Nantes
See the parade magic up close for free!
UGC Cinema: Les Pestacles (Kids' Morning Screening)
UGC Ciné Cité Atlantis
A discounted Sunday morning movie session perfect for sheltering from bad weather.
Lucine et Malo (Lucine and Malo)
Théâtre de la Cachette
A gentle and charming show specifically for ages 2 to 8 years.
· February 7
5CARNIVAL OF NANTES WORKSHOPS OPEN HOUSEFREE : Get a rare behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happens before the big parade! Families are invited to visit the Carnival workshops to see how the incredible floats and costumes are made. This is a fantastic, hands-on look at a major local tradition.A fantastic, free, behind-the-scenes look at the famous Nantes Carnival preparations.
IMMERSIVE DISCOVERY DAY AT THE HOUSE OF THE GRAND-LIEU LAKE : Take the family on an exciting adventure exploring the Grand-Lieu Lake site, moving from exhibitions to a viewpoint over the water. The 'immersive' visit is recommended for ages 8 and up for a deeper exploration of the nature reserve.Offers an educational and active experience outside the city center, focusing on local nature.
FREE GUIDED TOUR OF MIXTFREE : Discover the inner workings and multiple facets of Le Mixt with a free guided tour on the first Saturday of the month. This is a cool peek behind the scenes of a cultural venue, perfect for curious older kids and teens.One of the few free options this weekend, offering a look behind the scenes of a contemporary venue.
WITCHES EXHIBITION : Dive into the history of the 'witch' figure from the Renaissance to today at the Castle. This intriguing historical and cultural journey is fascinating for older children and teens interested in history, social fears, and mythology. Check museum entry fees.A major cultural exhibition at a key landmark, offering a thought-provoking theme.
PINKERTON: INVESTIGATION IN AFRICA : An interactive, funny, and dance-filled adventure where your kids join the Pinkerton Agency to save Africa from a strange beast! Spectators are invited to participate, making it highly engaging for younger adventurers.Highly interactive show where kids become secret agents to solve a mystery—perfect for active young imaginations.
· February 8
4LUCINE ET MALO (LUCINE AND MALO) : A sweet show where kids help Lucine the water sprite save the river with Malo! It’s a lovely, gentle performance perfect for the younger end of your age range. A great indoor option for a Sunday afternoon.A charming, specifically age-targeted show focused on an environmental quest that young children will adore.
FORÊTS (FORESTS) CONCERT BY NELSON : A gentle and enveloping concert blending electro sounds, vocals, and sonic textures. It’s described as a musical walk at a child's level, perfect for dreaming with open eyes. A really unique musical experience for younger kids.A rare chance to see a modern, electro-infused musical journey specifically created for children.
UGC CINEMA: LES PESTACLES (KIDS' MORNING SCREENING) : If the weather turns, head to UGC for their special kids' screening event happening every Sunday morning. It's a great deal with reduced pricing for children under 14, making it an easy indoor win.A reliable, low-effort indoor activity for younger kids available on Sunday morning.
“UN ANIMAL, DES AMIS MOTS !” (AN ANIMAL, SOME FRIEND WORDS!) - MUSICAL TALE : A musical tale that turns into a concert about farm animals, featuring music, songs, and puppets! This blend of genres should keep the whole family entertained, especially those who love music and animals.A multi-genre performance combining music, puppets, and storytelling around a fun farm theme.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Nantes this weekend?
This weekend (Feb 07-08) the best free option is the Portes ouvertes des ateliers du Carnaval de Nantes (Carnival Workshops Open House) on Saturday and Sunday. Also, check out the Free Guided Tours of Le Mixt on Saturday afternoon!
Are there any good rainy-day activities for kids on Sunday, Feb 8th?
Yes! For younger kids, the show "Lucine et Malo" is playing at Théâtre de la Cachette. For a fun, discounted activity, the UGC Ciné Cité Atlantis has its 'Les Pestacles' screening in the morning.
What is happening this weekend that is unique to Nantes?
The Portes ouvertes des ateliers du Carnaval de Nantes on Saturday and Sunday is a unique local preview into a massive city tradition. Also, the Pinkerton interactive show on Saturday morning is a one-off theatrical adventure.