U4 Steam Festival Steampunk

When Steampunk Meets the Steel Industry

The U4 Steam is a festival that brings together two surprisingly complementary universes: the imaginary steampunk, a cultural movement blending Victorian aesthetics and retro-futuristic science fiction, and the industrial heritage of Lorraine's steel industry. The Haut-Fourneau U4 site, an impressive industrial monument from the 1930s, with its metal structures, pipes, and vertiginous walkways, provides a perfect natural setting for this immersion into a world where steam, gears, and fantastical inventions reign supreme.

A Unique Industrial Setting

The Parc du Haut-Fourneau U4, located in the Fensch Valley in Uckange, is one of the few blast furnaces preserved in Europe. Classified as a historic monument, it bears witness to the steelmaking history that shaped Lorraine. At night, the blast furnace is illuminated by the permanent installation of artist Claude Lévêque, titled "Tous les soleils" (All the Suns), which bathes the monument in colorful lights. This industrial and artistic setting enhances the festival's steampunk atmosphere.

Costumes and Parades

U4 Steam strongly encourages visitors to come costumed in the steampunk spirit: top hats, aviator goggles, corsets, frock coats, gears, and copper accessories. Costumed festival-goers benefit from a reduced rate. Costumed parades are organized in the park, creating a lively and participatory show where everyone becomes an actor in the festival.

Shows and Activities

The festival program includes street performances blending theater, circus, and street arts in a steampunk aesthetic, exhibitions of retro-futuristic objects and imaginary machines, creative workshops for making your own steampunk accessories, and board game and role-playing game areas on the theme. Conferences and round tables explore the different facets of steampunk culture.

A Partnership with La Ballade féerique

U4 Steam is organized in partnership with the association La Ballade féerique, specialists in organizing events on themes of the imaginary, fantasy, and geek culture. This collaboration ensures a quality program and in-depth knowledge of the French and European steampunk community.

A Festival for the Whole Family

U4 Steam is designed as a family-friendly event. Children are welcome and can participate in creative workshops, discover street performances, and immerse themselves in the wonderful world of steampunk. The festive and good-natured atmosphere, combined with the impressive setting of the blast furnace, creates unforgettable memories for young and old alike.