Le Printemps du Grand Meaulnes

In the footsteps of Alain-Fournier and the soldier-writers

Le Printemps du Grand Meaulnes was born in 2011 from a desire to pay tribute to the soldier-writers of the First World War and to promote the historical and natural heritage of the Woëvre plain. The festival takes its name from the famous novel by Alain-Fournier, Le Grand Meaulnes, whose author is buried in Saint-Rémy-la-Calonne, a neighboring town of Bonzée.

A multidisciplinary festival

Le Printemps du Grand Meaulnes is much more than just a book fair. The festival embraces multiple dimensions:

• Book fair: authors, historians, and publishers present their works and sign their books, with a focus on war literature, history, and heritage.
• Conferences and round tables: interventions by specialists on the history of the Great War, soldier-writers, and the memorial heritage of the Meuse.
• Exhibitions: presentations of objects, documents, and photographs related to the First World War and local heritage.
• Historical reenactments: reenactment groups bring to life the daily life of soldiers and key moments of the conflict.
• Shows and performances: readings, plays, and artistic creations related to the festival's theme.

Rooted in the territory

The festival also highlights the riches of the region:

• Rural culture: the association Vu d'un Œuf produces works and shows with young people from the area.
• Nature and landscapes: the CPIE de Meuse and the Hannonville ecomuseum offer activities to discover the natural heritage.
• Local producers' market: Meuse terroir to discover and taste.

The Base de Loisirs du Colvert

The festival takes place at the Base de Loisirs du Colvert in Bonzée, a pleasant natural site on the edge of a body of water, which became an intercommunal facility in 2017. This green and spacious setting allows for the various activities to be held in a relaxed and family-friendly environment.

Memory and territory

Le Printemps du Grand Meaulnes contributes to the duty of remembrance while revitalizing the territory of the Woëvre plain. By combining literature, history, rural culture, and local produce, the festival offers a rich and complete experience to visitors.