Jardin Éphémère

« Ma racine au fond des bois » — tribute to Émile Gallé

For its 23rd edition, from October 2nd to November 1st, 2026, the Jardin Éphémère on Place Stanislas celebrates Émile Gallé, master glassmaker and major figure of the École de Nancy, whose work was deeply inspired by nature and the plant world. The edition coincides with the 180th anniversary of the birth of the Lorraine artist.

A scenography inspired by the master glassmaker's workshop

The landscape composition evokes the entrance to Émile Gallé's workshops and creates a dialogue between plants and glass creations. This year, the garden is enlarged by approximately 1,000 m² compared to 2025, with three times more planting beds incorporating glass pieces. A staircase installed around the statue of Stanislas offers an elevated viewpoint over the entire square transformed into a poetic and immersive plant scene.

A responsible and accessible installation for all

Designed and created by the gardeners of the City of Nancy, the Jardin Éphémère mobilizes several thousand plants and numerous trees in a sustainable approach: recycled materials and plants subsequently reused in other green spaces of the city. The installation is freely accessible throughout its duration, day and night, thanks to nocturnal lighting that enhances the compositions. An interactive game allows visitors to discover the life and work of Émile Gallé throughout the route.

• 23rd edition, from October 2nd to November 1st, 2026 on Place Stanislas
• Theme « Ma racine au fond des bois », tribute to Émile Gallé (180th anniversary of his birth)
• Scenography evoking the master glassmaker's workshop door, glass creations integrated into the beds
• Garden enlarged by approximately 1,000 m², three times more planting beds
• Staircase around the statue of Stanislas for an elevated view
• Interactive game about the life and work of Émile Gallé
• Free admission, day and night

Access and Transport

The Jardin Éphémère is located on the Place Stanislas, in the heart of Nancy's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is one of the most accessible places in the city.

• By tram: Line 1, stops "Cathédrale-Ville Vieille" or "Place Stanislas" (2 minutes walk from the square).
• By train: Nancy-Ville station is a 10-minute walk via Rue Stanislas, one of the city's main pedestrian streets. TGV Paris-Nancy in 1h30, TER Metz-Nancy in 40 minutes.
• By car: Stanislas underground parking (under the square, direct access) or Charles III (5 minutes walk). From the A31, take the Nancy Centre exit then follow the signs for "Centre-ville" and "Place Stanislas".
• By bike: VélOstan'lib stations are in the immediate vicinity of the square. Cycle paths from different districts of Nancy.
• By bus: Stan network, several lines serve the city center of Nancy. Stops near the square.

Dates and Times

The garden is installed from October to early November, for about a month. It is accessible 24/7, including at night thanks to special lighting that enhances the plant compositions after dark. Night access is particularly recommended to discover the garden from a different perspective.

Prices

Access to the garden is completely free, day and night, for the entire duration of the installation.

Guided tours and activities

A program of activities accompanies the garden throughout its duration:

• Discovery tours: offered at 11 am on certain weekdays, to understand the plant choices and the scenography
• Balcony openings: on Sundays, the square's balconies are open to the public to offer an exceptional aerial view of the garden
• Lunch conferences: mid-day themed meetings around the edition's theme
• Educational workshops: activities for schoolchildren and the young public organized during the week

Accessibility

The garden is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility, as Place Stanislas is on one level. Leashed dogs are accepted. Strollers can easily navigate the garden paths.

Practical Advice

It is recommended to visit the garden both day and night to appreciate the two very different atmospheres. Photographers will find the best lighting conditions in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends are busier: for a more relaxed visit, prefer weekdays.

Contact

Ville de Nancy - Parks and Gardens Department
Official website: www.nancy.fr
Nancy Tourist Office: www.nancy-tourisme.fr