Fête de la Libération de Joigny

The Fête de la Libération de Joigny: Memory and Popular Celebration

On August 22, 1944, members of Groupe Bayard entered Joigny to liberate the town from Nazi occupation. German troops had evacuated the city even before the resistance fighters entered, sparing the town the street fighting that ravaged other localities. This historic day has been commemorated annually by the town of Joigny, which has made it one of its most important civic and festive events.

Groupe Bayard: Courageous Resistance

Groupe Bayard is intimately linked to the history of Joigny and the Jovinien region. Created during the winter of 1940-1941 under the leadership of Paul Herbin, known as "Hubert," this resistance network carried out clandestine activities of rare intensity for four years: intelligence gathering, sabotage, aid to those evading compulsory labor service, and rescue of Jewish families. Thirty-five members of Bayard paid with their lives for their commitment to freedom between 1941 and 1945.

Since the Liberation, Joigny has housed the Musée de la Résistance - Groupe Bayard, one of the first museums dedicated to the Resistance opened in France. This living memorial is at the heart of the annual commemorations.

The Official Ceremony

The Fête de la Libération opens with an official ceremony in the presence of the town's elected officials, representatives of veterans' associations, and patriotic organizations. Speeches recall the courage of the Bayard resistance fighters and honor the memory of the victims of the Occupation. Guided tours of the Musée de la Résistance are often offered as part of the commemorations, allowing younger generations to connect with this heritage.

The Grand Fireworks Display on the Yonne

The highlight of the evening is the grand fireworks display launched from the banks of the Yonne. Fired from the riverbank, it illuminates Joigny's sky and reflects in the calm waters of the river, offering a spectacle enhanced by the town's natural setting. Residents and visitors gather along the banks or at the windows of the half-timbered houses of old Joigny to admire the show. The fireworks are launched in the evening, around 10 PM, from the Place du 1er RVY.

The Popular Ball with the Orchestra Équinoxe

After the fireworks, the celebration continues with a popular ball led by the orchestra Équinoxe. This orchestra, with a repertoire blending French popular music, international standards, and dance music, invites all generations to the dance floor. The ball takes place outdoors, extending the atmosphere of festivity and fraternity that characterizes this anniversary of liberation late into the night.

Joigny, a Town of History and Character

Joigny is a town of art and history overlooking the Yonne from its hill crowned by the Saint-Thibault church. Its 15th and 16th-century half-timbered houses, medieval streets, and hillside vineyards make it a popular tourist destination in Burgundy. The Fête de la Libération, set against this exceptional backdrop, is also an invitation to discover this charming town whose soul remains deeply marked by its history of resistance and courage.