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Versailles Night Fountains Show

Extravagant fountain at the Chateau de Versailles illuminated at night
See the Palace Gardens in All Their Glory

Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles

This review may contain sponsored or affiliate links.

Every summer, le Château de Versailles puts together a late-night event unlike any other. The Nighttime Musical Fountain Show, or Les Grandes Eaux Nocturnes is an unforgettable evening that brings together gardens, music, and royal fountains that are a remarkable feat of 17th century engineering. 

The world-famous fountains strewn across the magnificent gardens of Versailles puts on a choreographed water and lights show, set to the tune of classical baroque music. 

Last summer, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the show on its very last day. Suffice to say, I knew that a huge crowd was to be expected and there sure was. But the sprawling grounds of the chateau are big enough that I never felt like I was swimming in a crowd of people.

Main fountain at the Versailles palace

Keep in mind that the event is outdoors and requires a lot of walking. So be sure to wear your most comfortable shoes and carry a jacket. 

While the famous garden designed by André Le Nôtre is spectacular on any given day, getting to explore it by the gorgeous evening light is truly magical. Even the Château de Versailles, all lit up with the fountains in front of it glistening, is something you don’t get to see every day.

After you enter the gardens of the château, you walk from one magnificent fountain display to another. Each fountain has its own unique design and features, each with its own special flair for which the lights and music are specially crafted.

Golden details of one of the many fountains at Versailles

The paths are all tastefully lit, with clear indicators. Plus, the palace staff is always on hand in case of any questions or confusions.  

Given the vast size of the grounds, I decided not to try to reach every fountain and instead picked a few to truly immerse ourselves in. Some of the must-sees include the grand Neptune fountain, the laser show at the Colonnade Grove, and the Ballroom (also called the Rococo Grove), whose stage plays host to thrilling performances like fire dance. 

The highlight of the evening, though, was undoubtedly the incredible fireworks at the end of the evening in front of the Grand Canal. 

Fireworks over the gardens of the Versailles Palace

Versailles Night Fountain Show 2026 Schedule

  • Every Saturday from June 6 to September 19, 2026 – Night Fountain Shows (illuminated fountains, classical music, fireworks)
  • Tuesday, July 14, 2026 – Special Bastille Day Night Fountain Show
  • Saturday, August 15 – Fire Night Fountain Show (spectacular pyrotechnics, fire artists, drone display)
  • Saturday, August 29. 2026 – Special Harry Potter Return to Hogwarts Night Fountain Show

Shows typically run from 8:30pm to 11:05pm, except the Electro Night, which continues until 11:45pm.

Standard adult tickets from 33€.

Reserve your tickets for the Versailles Night Fountains Show

Can’t Make It to a Versailles Night Fountain Show?

No worries! You can still experience the palace gardens during the day with two fantastic options:

  • Musical Fountains Show (April 4 – November 1, 2026)
    Wander through the beautiful gardens while fountains dance to baroque music.
    When? Every weekend, plus Tuesdays from May 65 – June 30, and on select public holidays.
  • Musical Gardens (April 1 – October 31, 2026)
    Enjoy exploring Versailles’ gardens with gentle classical music playing in the background.
    When? Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays (except during Musical Fountains Show days).

Both options are a wonderful way to experience Versailles — even if you miss out on the evening shows!

recommended by

Pronoti Paris blogger for Urbansider city guide
Location
Neighborhood
Quartier
Métro Ⓜ
Address
  • Place d’Armes
  • 78000 Versailles

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