Grand Déballage de Printemps - Spring Crime Fiction Fair

The Grand Déballage de Printemps at the Village du Livre

Fontenoy-la-Joûte, designated a Village du Livre since 1996, is a unique place in Lorraine where a dozen professional booksellers have set up home in the village's old farmhouses. Twice a year, in spring and autumn, the village organizes its famous déballages which attract thousands of literature enthusiasts.

A double event since 2025

The Grand Déballage de Printemps, traditionally held on Easter Sunday and Monday, has been enhanced by a Crime Fiction Fair that showcases authors of the genre. Under tents set up in the village, about ten crime fiction authors offer book signing sessions and interactive workshops, providing visitors with a complete literary experience.

Passionate Booksellers

During the two days of the event, the 8 resident booksellers open their doors and are joined by about ten itinerant professional booksellers and private exhibitors. The village lanes are transformed into a huge open-air market where you can find books on all themes: novels, essays, fine arts, sciences, old books, pocket editions, comic strips, and illustrated works.

A Friendly Atmosphere

Entry and parking are completely free. Fast food and drinks are available on site, allowing visitors to fully enjoy this day dedicated to reading. The village, nestled in the Lunéville countryside, offers an ideal rural setting for browsing among the book stalls.