Alençon has a mild Norman climate — wet enough that the forests are lush, but not dramatically cold in winter or hot in summer. The best months to visit are May through September. The Thursday market is worth planning around. The Forest of Écouves is at its most beautiful in October and November when the autumn colours are on.
The town hosts the Festival des Jeux de l'Esprit in autumn, a board games and strategy games festival that draws enthusiasts from across France. Alençon is also a stop on the route of Paris-Brest-Paris, the legendary long-distance cycling event held every four years, when the town fills with cyclists and spectators.