This post was written by Anaïs Niobey
Maison de Normandie’s shop windows are showcasing Normandie’s 1,000 years old fairs.
The 1,000 years old fairs are traditional events deeply rooted in the history of Normandy.
They date back to the Middle Ages and are celebrated annually in six towns of La Manche department: Lessay, Brix, Saint-James, Gavray, Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouët and Montebourg. Click here to read a quick description of each fair.
Historically, they served as a meeting point for commercial, agricultural, and artisanal exchanges, as well as for religious and social festivities. Today, these fairs have retained their traditional essence while incorporating modern elements. There are numerous activities to enjoy: livestock sales (sheep, cattle, horses), agricultural competitions, local products markets, normandy culinary specialties, handcrafted goods, demonstrations of traditional and modern trades, concerts, street performances, exhibitions…
The 1,000 years old fairs of La Manche are a living tribute to the richness of local heritage, with an extraordinary longevity. Every year, they attract thousands of visitors eager to immerse themselves in the authenticity and history of Normandy.
We would like to thank the organisers of the fairs, La Manche Archives for loaning us old photographs and Jersey Farmers Union for accepting to loan us agriculture equipment. Many thanks to them for helping us create this display.
The last shop window is dedicated to the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics Games in Paris.
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