Fun Facts

Every city has its little anecdotes, legends, and mysteries, and Nancy is no exception. The city is full of fascinating stories, and you might even know a few of them. Let’s share some of them with you now. First, there are four major events that make Nancy famous. One of them is the Book Fair held in September on Place Carrière. If you’re a literary soul, you’ll love this event, which attracts nearly 500 authors eager to share their stories and amazing tales with adventure-loving readers like you. You’ll get lost in book after book, and the best part? The fair is free! Next up, we have the Saint-Nicolas festivities at the end of the year, which feature one of the largest float parades in France. After all the literary fun, it’s time for a festive atmosphere, filled with music, activities, and plenty of delicious food in every color imaginable. Speaking of music, don’t miss the Nancy Jazz Pulsation (NJP) festival, which takes place in October. This jazz and contemporary music festival offers a sensational, sensory experience that will have you feeling the magic of music. And let’s not forget the ephemeral gardens on Place Stanislas, which transform the square for a month, offering a perfect spot to relax, eat, and enjoy a drink at one of Nancy’s most iconic locations. Finally, we’d like to end with one of Nancy’s lesser-known legends. It’s about the Craffe Gate in the north of the Old Town, a medieval fortification that hints at the city’s past. Legend has it that a lover was locked in the Craffe Gate by his beloved’s family, who didn’t approve of him. But a tree grew at the very spot where he was imprisoned, and as it matured, he managed to climb it and escape. If you visit today, you’ll still see a tree in that spot. Could it be the same tree that helped the lover escape to be with his beloved? Was this legend more than just a story? We may never know the full truth, but it’s a tale that still sparks curiosity in visitors.