For several years, the Pâquier has transformed into a vast area for biathlon for a weekend. On the menu? Several races for professional biathletes, adults, and children. The Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival is a unique opportunity to share a moment with international athletes. Presentation.
The Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival, a sporting event not to be missed
Every year in September, international biathletes and other professional athletes meet in Annecy, on the Pâquier, for the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival. As its name suggests, it is indeed the five-time Olympic champion who is behind the event. Its goal? To offer a show worthy of the name to the French public and allow them to meet the greatest athletes while waiting for the winter, as well as the Biathlon World Cup in Grand-Bornand.
Some telling figures about the event
After three editions, the MFNF has established itself as a must-see on the shores of the lake. In two days of competition and 6 races, about 968 shots are fired by the 60 international biathletes present. Among them are Anaïs Chevalier-Bouchet and Justine Braisaz-Bouchet among the French women, Émilien Jacquelin or Quentin Fillon-Maillet among the men. It goes without saying that the lineup is more than enticing.
Where to see the MFNF?
To enjoy the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival, it is not necessary to go to the heart of the Pâquier. You can go to Avenue d’Albigny to see the athletes parade on Saturday and Sunday. And for those who would prefer to be comfortably seated in the stands, it is possible to book tickets online.
The summary of the 2021 edition in video
To whet your appetite, we offer you a video reviewing the 2021 edition of the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival.
Practical information to enjoy the event
The nerve center of the event is undoubtedly located on the Pâquier, where the starts and finishes of the races take place. Still in this area, you will find a village made up of about 60 tents, refreshment stands, and food trucks. Signing sessions are organized there, as well as contests and biathlon initiations.
Where to park during the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival?
To get to the MFNF, we recommend as much as possible to opt for public transport, cycling, or walking if you live nearby. Otherwise, you can go to the parking lots:
- From the City Hall, 432 spaces.
- From Bonlieu, 693 spaces.
- From the Palais de Justice, 110 spaces.
- From Courier, 763 spaces.
The streets near the Berthollet and Sommeiller high schools remain free. Although spaces are rare, it may be worth trying your luck.
Where to stay in Annecy for the MFNF?
If you do not live in Annecy and are traveling specifically for the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival, here are some accommodation ideas near the Pâquier.
L’Atipik Hôtel
L’Atipik Hôtel is a 2-star establishment located in the center of Annecy. Just 5 minutes from the train station and the Pâquier, it is the ideal place for a sporty weekend like this. The hotel has 25 rooms, all different from one another.
L’Impérial Palace
L’Impérial Palace is a 4-star establishment located by Lake Annecy. You can reach the MFNF on foot along Avenue d’Albigny. An ideal location that will also allow you to enjoy the lake if the weather permits.
L’Hôtel Campanile Annecy
A 3-star establishment, the Hôtel Campanile Annecy Centre Gare welcomes you just a few minutes from the train station. You can thus enjoy the city center while attending the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival.
The 2024 edition of the MFNF
The Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival 2024 will take place from August 30 to September 1 in Annecy, on the Pâquier. Like every year, the event offers a rich program with concerts, cross-country skiing and biathlon races, as well as running biathlon races. A brand village by Ekosport will also be present, with around sixty exhibitors, refreshment stands, food trucks, and official shops.
See the complete program of the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival 2024.
Past editions
The 2023 edition of the MFNF
The fourth edition of the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival took place from September 1 to 3, 2023, in Annecy, on the Pâquier. Like every year, many activities took place on the Pâquier alongside the competition and the brand village. This edition featured musical performances by Broken Back and DJ Deal on the Pâquier lawn, offering free concerts open to all on Friday and Saturday evenings.
See the program and more information about the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival 2023.
The 2022 edition of the MFNF
The 2022 edition of the Martin Nordic Festival attracted crowds once again. It must be said that the event is an opportunity to see international biathletes finish their preparation for the winter season.
The show was indeed present, and Martin Fourcade, who relied on Quentin Fillon-Maillet to ensure the show, was well served. The Frenchman finished first in the men’s mass start. This was the only competition left for the Jurassian to win. It is now done.
