GRAND SALON DE LA GÉNÉALOGIE 2026

Grand Salon de la Généalogie 2026: Paris Hub for Family History Discovery

Scheduled for July 2-4, 2026, at the Parc des Expositions de Paris Porte de Versailles (Pavillon 1), the Grand Salon de la Généalogie stands as Europe's premier event dedicated to the exploration of family history. This highly anticipated biennial gathering promises an immersive experience for genealogists of all levels, from curious beginners to seasoned researchers, drawing thousands of enthusiasts to the French capital.

A Comprehensive Genealogical Ecosystem

The core of the Salon is a vast exhibition hall hosting over 200 exhibitors. Attendees will find a comprehensive ecosystem of resources:
Archival Institutions: Major French national and regional archives (Archives Nationales, Archives Départementales), alongside international archives offering access to digitized records and expert guidance.
Genealogy Software & Platforms: Leading providers of family tree software (e.g., Geneanet, MyHeritage, Ancestry.fr) and online databases showcasing new features and vast collections.
Specialized Societies & Associations: Dozens of French regional genealogy societies, thematic groups (e.g., military, Huguenot, overseas), and heritage preservation organizations.
Publishers & Booksellers: Extensive selection of genealogical guides, regional histories, heraldry books, and historical maps.
Service Providers: Professional genealogists offering research services, DNA testing companies (for genetic genealogy), photo restoration experts, and heritage tourism specialists.
Regional & Local Tourism Offices: Promoting ancestral regions, highlighting local archives, museums, and historical sites relevant to family research.

Beyond Exhibits: Education, Connection & Inspiration

The Salon transcends a simple trade fair, offering a rich program designed to deepen knowledge and foster connections:
Conferences & Workshops: A packed schedule of lectures by renowned historians, archivists, and genealogical experts covering diverse topics: deciphering old French handwriting, navigating specific archival collections, understanding French administrative history, utilizing DNA effectively, researching military ancestors, and exploring migration patterns. Workshops provide hands-on guidance.
Consultation Booths: Opportunities for one-on-one advice from professional genealogists and archive specialists to overcome research roadblocks.
Networking: A unique environment to connect with fellow researchers, share discoveries, swap tips, and find cousins or collaborators working on the same families or regions.
Themed Zones: Dedicated areas like the "DNA & Genetics" zone and the "Military Heritage" zone offer focused resources and presentations.

Why Paris? Why 2026?

Held in Paris, the Salon provides unparalleled access to France's central archival resources and the expertise of its leading genealogical community. The 2026 edition builds on the event's reputation as an indispensable meeting point, reflecting the enduring global fascination with uncovering personal and collective pasts. It's not just an event; it's a pilgrimage for anyone passionate about understanding their roots, leveraging the power of Paris as a world heritage and research capital to unlock the stories of their ancestors. Whether starting a journey or breaking down a brick wall, the Grand Salon de la Généalogie 2026 offers the tools, knowledge, and inspiration to propel family history research forward.