On the south side of the Chateau of Versailles you’ll find the street named “rue de l’Indépendance américaine”. Why? The Palace of Versailles served as the political and diplomatic epicenter of the American Revolution. Ever since the disastrous Treaty of Paris in 1763, which entailed France’s loss of Canada and the Indies, France had been seeking revenge against England. It was at Versailles that King Louis XVI recognized the United States in 1777, officially allied with the rebellion committing vital financial and military assistance in 1778 and in 1783 signed the preliminary peace articles ending the war.
In the summer of 2026, to mark the 250th or semiquincentennial anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, the Palace of Versailles will open its doors for a brand-new immersive experience. Visitors are invited to step back in time and discover the fascinating links between Versailles and the birth of the United States.
A new experience called Light of Liberty, co-produced by Yalla.Digital Inc and the Palace of Versailles, is on show until 31st of January 2027.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the FRANCO-AMERICAN alliance alongside King Louis XIV, the Marquis de La Fayette, Benjamin Franklin and other the leading figures of the American Revolution in a 15 minute immersive mixed-reality experience which blends virtual and augmented reality. With enhanced real-world settings, unique interactions and spectacular immersive sequences, each scene offers a captivating journey through history. Discover the major events, key historical figures, court life and military campaigns of the American Revolution. Immerse yourself in the political issues, human ambitions and ideals of freedom and independence that shaped this period, made possible thanks to the decisive support of France and Versailles! This exhibit is available in English and French and is recommended for ages 8 and over. From 4pm to 6.30pm for just 7€ you can visit the Light of Liberty VR experience without touring the whole chateau and purchasing your ticket for 42€.
In addition to this special exhibition the Chateau has planned three other commemorations.
- On July 4th the groves and the fountains will be exceptionally open, and to conclude the evening, an aerial show combining drones and pyrotechnics will be presented. The Night Fountains Show – 4th of July Special Edition.
- The podcast « La Fayette and the American War of Independence » is available starting June 27 on all listening platforms.
- Youngsters can download the Cryptors in the City app and hunt for iconic figures connected to the history of Versailles and the American War of Independence Cryptors in the City as well as other important figure sin French history.
The French National holiday is July 14. Read here about the symbols of France.