Fairground culture inscribed in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage!

Fairground Culture at UNESCO! 

We are thrilled to share long-awaited news: fairground culture has been inscribed in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage! This major project, led by France and Belgium, is the result of years of dedication and collective efforts to gain recognition for the cultural and historical significance of fairground traditions.

For many years, Jean Paul Favand has worked towards the recognition of fairground art by showcasing this unique heritage in a living memory site, the Pavillons de Bercy. His goal has been to highlight the social phenomenon of the fairground, particularly that of the 19th century.

It was only natural for us to be actively involved in this initiative: our collections manager, Éloïse Galliard, was one of the coordinators in drafting the application.

A Shared Commitment to a Universal Heritage

This inscription would not have been possible without the dedication of a steering committee that brought together representatives from various organizations, historians, curators, fairground professionals, and enthusiasts. Together, we demonstrated that the fairground is not just a place of entertainment but also a space for artistic creation and cultural expression, carrying a rich history and a unique identity.

A recognition that opens new perspectives

This distinction helps raise public awareness of the richness of this heritage and strengthens our commitment to preserving fairground traditions.

We extend our deepest thanks to all the individuals and institutions who contributed to this incredible human and cultural journey. Together, we have written a new chapter in the history of the fairground, and we look forward to continuing to bring this art to life and share it with the world.

Published on 26.03.25