Next up in Cantigny’s fun-packed Summer is Voyage en France, set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Later that day, Rendezvous en France, beginning at 7 p.m. for ages 21+, will extend the celebration deep into the night.
French culture fans of all ages will find plenty to enjoy at “Voyage,” a festival presenting the sights, sounds and flavors of France. Event partners include Alliance Français DuPage, the French Chamber of Commerce, and the French Consulate.
Scheduled attractions and activities include en plein air artists in the gardens; performers from Salt Creek Ballet; live music and street entertainers; French-themed garden displays; children’s art projects at the Little Louvre Museum; open-air French Market; and an Eiffel Tower replica and other photo props.
Cantigny’s 2024 programming theme, France at Cantigny, commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a pivotal moment in World War II in which the 1st Infantry Division bravely served. The First Division Museum’s new outdoor exhibit, Nothing But Victory, tells the story of those who fought on the beaches and made their way through Normandy. The exhibit and museum will be open during Voyage en France.
Cantigny, the former estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick, is named after a small French village, site of the Battle of Cantigny in 1918. Colonel McCormick, at age 37, commanded an artillery unit there as a member of the U.S. Army’s First Division. It was America’s first significant victory in World War I.
Tickets for Voyage en France are on sale at Cantigny.org. Adults are $15 per person, ages 15 and under free. Parking is included in the ticket price.
Guests can further indulge in the flavors of France at the French Food & Wine Experience ($125) inside the Robert R. McCormick House. An exquisite tasting menu paired with select wines will be served at 11 am and 2 p.m. seatings (choose one).
Rendezvous en France: After-hours fun for adults!
Guests (21 and over) holding tickets for Rendezvous en France can travel back in time and experience the elegance of Versailles and the effervescence of Paris’ Moulin Rouge as Cantigny’s gardens are transformed with lights, music and performances. Cabaret singers, aerial artists, contortionists, and surprises around every corner await, accompanied by delicious food and luscious drinks. Hours are 7 p.m. to midnight.
Tickets for Rendezvous are $65 at the “Bohemian” level and available online at Cantigny.org. For $150, guests can upgrade to “Courtier” and enjoy an open bar, food service, and a private lounge area.
Cantigny is open only to ticket holders July 20. Park gates will open at 10 a.m..
—Cantigny Park