From October 7 to 11, 2026, the Blois History Meetings will return for their 29th edition, with the theme "The Merchants." This annual event brings together historians, archaeologists, and educators to explore various aspects of historical trade and commerce. The meetings will feature a series of lectures, discussions, and workshops aimed at both the academic community and the general public. The event will take place in Blois, a city in central France known for its historical significance and rich cultural heritage. One of the sessions, titled "Archaeology: A History of Merchants?" will be held on Friday, October 9, from 14:00 to 15:30 at INSA, Main Building - Denis Papin Amphitheater. This round table will feature experts including Djamila Fellague, Dominique Garcia, Frédéric Gerber, and Geneviève Pinçon, with Xavier Mauduit as the moderator. The discussion will explore how archaeology can shed light on the role of merchants throughout history. On Saturday, October 10, from 11:00 to 12:30 at INSPÉ, Room 22, the session "Merchants and Ceramics: The Lyon Fairs of the Renaissance" will be presented by Alban Horry and Elena Pavel, with Laure Ferry as the moderator. This session is part of a partnership with the Association of History and Geography Professors (APHG) and will focus on the role of merchants in the Renaissance through the lens of ceramics and trade fairs. Other sessions will include "Prehistory: What Lessons for the Present?" on Sunday, October 11, from 14:30 to 16:00 at City Hall, Marriage Hall, featuring Anne Augereau and Boris Valentin. Additionally, a youth encounter titled "Tell Me About Archaeology" will take place at the Book Fair, Youth Space, on Sunday from 10:15 to 11:00. This session will be based on the book Tell Me About Archaeology (Actes Sud Jeunesse/Inrap), with Sandra Sicard as the speaker and Xavier Mauduit as the moderator. Educational workshops and dedication sessions will also be held throughout the event, with various books and presentations scheduled across the days.