Colors of Nevers - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Local residents have a deep respect for their historical traditions. Some elements of local culture have remained relevant for hundreds of years. Among such cultural traditions are wineries - there are many historic vineyards and factories in the vicinity of Nevers. Burgundy wines are now considered one of the best not only in France but in Europe. Local experts keep their wine-making traditions secret. Vineyards and factories conduct regular themed tours for connoisseurs of elite drinks.

Throughout the year, many festivals dedicated to wine-making traditions are celebrated in Nevers. They are usually held in early autumn when everyone can try special varieties of young wine and join lush festivities. Wine-related festivals are all distinguished by a rich entertainment program. Its guests can enjoy fairs where they can try and buy the best regional delicacies. On the main city streets and squares, beautiful processions are held, theater performances and music concerts are organized.

Local winemakers consider Saint Vincent to be their patron saint. He is usually portrayed with a bunch of grapes in his hand. A beautiful holiday in his honor has been organized all over Burgundy since 1938, and some of the most interesting events take place in Nevers. It is customary to celebrate this holiday at the end of January. In the morning hours, local churches always hold high masses. A mandatory attribute of the celebration is wine tastings. The holiday program covers two days, some of its traditions have never been changed. Thus, it is customary to pour wine for tasting only from special 225-liter oak barrels. According to another good tradition, all wine tastings within the framework of the holiday should be free. However, you'll have a chance to buy your favorite wine at special fairs. Today, the annual holiday attracts about 200,000 wine connoisseurs and curious tourists from all over the world. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Besides observing interesting historical traditions, local residents are also distinguished by a special character, some features of which may seem rather unusual to foreign guests. First of all, it's worth mentioning their need for order in all its manifestation. City streets and parks are always kept clean, locals always put on the cleanest and tidiest clothes even when going to the nearest bakery. Such an obsession with order is the result of special education. From an early age, local parents teach their children how to be always neat and clean. The most interesting thing is to watch the townspeople going on a picnic to the nearest park on a sunny day. Do not be surprised if they wear beautiful holiday clothes and lay a snow-white cloth on the grass. They believe that everything around should be not only neat but also beautiful.

Nevers residents are also known for their passion for traditional gastronomy. They rarely visit restaurants specializing in any foreign cuisines. Even when it comes to French restaurants, they give preference to those serving traditional Burgundy dishes. The most important components of their daily diet are fresh bread and cheese, and dinner is almost never complete without a glass of Burgundy wine.

In general, Nevers is characterized by quite a calm and casual rhythm of life, which many travelers compare with the "rural" one. One of the main symbols of the city is premium-quality faience, the production of which was established here in back in medieval times. Faience that was made at local factories was even bought by representatives of the royal family for their homes, and today it is available to absolutely everyone. One of the historic factories of Nevers is still active. Since recently it is available for guided tours. The city has a lot of specialized stores where you can buy faience from local manufacturers, which is one of the most popular souvenirs among tourists.

Many travelers associate Nevers with world-famous Formula 1 racing. Circuit de Nevers Magny-Cours runs through the city, so F1 fans visit Nevers every year. If you hadn't a chance to witness the races, you can always visit one of the specialized stores and buy some souvenirs in the style of Formula One.