Les Lithaniennes

ℹ️ Event currently on hold. During our editorial check (May 2026), we found no public source (organizer, town hall, tourist office, local press) announcing a new edition of Les Lithaniennes. The last documented edition was the 5th, on July 6 and 7, 2019. The association's official website has not been updated since. If the association organizes the festival again, please let us know via the modification form for this listing.

A journey between the Middle Ages and fantasy

Les Lithaniennes was a unique festival that blended medieval history and a fantastic universe in the streets of Varzy, a small town of character in Nièvre. Every summer, the village transformed into a medieval-fantasy setting where knights, magicians, artisans, and storytellers mingled to the delight of visitors.

The medieval market

The heart of the festival was its medieval market, which brought together artisans and merchants in period costumes:

• Medieval crafts: blacksmithing, leatherwork, tabletterie, illumination, and calligraphy
• Jewelry and adornments: creations inspired by medieval and Celtic goldsmithing
• Costumes and accessories: medieval-inspired clothing, decorative armor
• Period products: mead, cervoise, spices, and medieval sweets

Fantasy book fair

Les Lithaniennes hosted a book fair dedicated to imaginative literature: fantasy, fantastic, science fiction, and historical novels. Authors, illustrators, and publishers were present for signings and meetings with readers.

Entertainment and shows

The entertainment program was rich and varied:

• Medieval encampment: reconstruction of a period camp with tents, cooking, and daily life of the Middle Ages
• Street shows: jugglers, fire-eaters, musicians, and storytellers roamed the festival
• Combat demonstrations: medieval fencing and sword fighting techniques
• Participatory workshops: archery, introduction to calligraphy, and medieval games

Varzy, a town of character

Varzy is a small commune in northern Nièvre, endowed with a rich historical heritage including its Auguste Grasset museum, its Sainte-Eugénie collegiate church, and its old houses. The Les Lithaniennes festival contributed, during its five editions (2014-2019), to promoting this town of character beyond the department.