Conflans-en-Jarnisy. “At night, this museum has a special atmosphere…”

The Museum of Fairground Art and Mechanical Music cannot be open year-round, "due to its public reception standards." But at each special opening, the public responds in force. This was the case during Heritage Days and before Christmas : "We welcomed 1,000 people, just on those dates," reports Frédéric Maurice, deputy for culture at the City of Conflans-en-Jarnisy.

Also, a new date has been decided for the European Night of Museums , to also present the recently restored pieces to connoisseurs. This will not be a first, "perhaps the third or fourth time," says the elected official. But the last one was "a few years ago." For the occasion, volunteers from the association that manages the museum are preparing the premises. The lighting has been redesigned (more subdued) and activities are even planned. "A game with little clues to collect," reveals Frédéric Maurice.

Who will show up, knowing that the doors don't open until 8 p.m.? "That's the mystery! For Heritage Days, we had people coming from quite far away, like Reims, Belgium, or the other end of the Moselle, who had traveled especially for it. With Christmas approaching, we welcomed mostly locals, but with the little surprise of seeing a lot of families, young couples with children." It's impossible to predict a reservation slot; people will be welcomed, "on the fly," by half a dozen volunteers, including three guides. "And we'll be open... for as long as necessary," smiles the deputy for culture.

Admission is free, as always. The elected official's latest update: "We're hosting 50 walkers from Bouzonville on Sunday, who are taking part in the IVV walk in Jarny and have asked us to visit the museum. When we're available, we always respond. Even for groups of around ten people."