Fête des Métiers d'Art de Villedieu-les-Poêles

The Fête des Métiers d'Art: a showcase for Norman artisanal excellence

Villedieu-les-Poêles, labeled a City of Arts and Crafts, has perpetuated an exceptional artisanal tradition since the Middle Ages. Every spring, the Fête des Métiers d'Art celebrates this living heritage by bringing together about sixty professional artisans and creators from all over Normandy and beyond. Organized by the community of communes Villedieu Intercom, the event has established itself since its creation in 2016 as the largest gathering for art crafts in the Manche department.

Rare and prestigious know-how

The "Cité du Cuivre" is world-renowned for its Cornille Havard bell foundry, heir to a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, which notably cast the new bells for Notre-Dame de Paris. Metalwork, the art of working with copper, is also part of the city's identity. During the festival, visitors can discover these rare skills through live demonstrations and exchanges with the artisans: metalworking, ceramics, glassmaking, leatherwork, textiles, jewelry making, cabinetmaking, and many other disciplines.

A weekend of exchanges and discoveries

The Fête des Métiers d'Art takes place over two days, Saturday and Sunday, on the Place des Costils and in partner workshops scattered throughout the city. Artisans exhibit and sell their creations, allowing visitors to leave with unique pieces. Conferences on heritage restoration and the transmission of know-how complete the program, while fun activities such as a tourist mini-train and giant wooden games delight the younger ones.

An event rooted in living heritage

By highlighting contemporary creativity as well as ancestral traditions, the Fête des Métiers d'Art contributes to the cultural and economic influence of Villedieu-les-Poêles. The event attracts an ever-increasing audience each year, appreciative of the quality and authenticity of the artisanal creations presented. Admission is free, in line with the desire to make the discovery of these exceptional crafts accessible to the greatest number.