France’s 8 Summer Festivals You Shouldn’t Miss

Experience the sights, sounds and culture of France this summer with these 8 incredible festivals. From music to art and wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant country. Discover the history of Les Eurockéennes de Belfort or travel to Lorient for the Festival Interceltique.

Enjoy the Fête du Bruit à Landerneau and the Festival International Nuits Secrètes. For a truly special experience, check out Les Vieilles Charrues or Nice Jazz Festival. The Foire aux Vins de Colmar is ideal for wine enthusiasts, while the Festival des Vieilles Charrues à Carhaix-Plouguer offers a unique blend of music and culture. Prepare to be amazed by the energy and atmosphere that these summer festivals offer!

 

1. Les Eurockéennes de Belfort

Les Eurockéennes de Belfort is an annual music festival that takes place on the banks of Lake Malsaucy in Belfort, France. Established in 1989, the festival features a variety of rock, pop and EDM acts from both French and international artists. The festival focuses on offering a unique experience for its dedicated attendees with concerts during the day held outdoors under the summer sun as well as special nighttime events.

Each year’s lineup draws upon a diverse range of genres to ensure that everyone who attends can find something to enjoy. For Eurockéennes fans, the event promises an unforgettable experience filled with music, dancing, camping, sightseeing and more!

Les Eurockéennes de Belfort
Les Eurockéennes de Belfort

 

2. Festival Interceltique de Lorient

Each year, thousands of people flock to the city of Lorient in western France to take part in the renowned Festival Interceltique de Lorient. Founded more than five decades ago, this cultural event brings together musicians and performers from Celtic nations around the world, including Brittany, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Attendees can expect a variety of festivities and activities, such as foot races on land and boat races at sea.

There are also live concerts on multiple stages that feature traditional music along with contemporary takes on Celtic sounds. Whether you’re looking for a unique way to dive into the culture or just want to experience some extraordinary performances, this is an event that will not disappoint.

Festival Interceltique de Lorient
Festival Interceltique de Lorient

 

3. La Fête du Bruit à Landerneau

La Fête du Bruit à Landerneau is an exciting music festival held in the small French town of Landerneau. This unique festival, happening each October, showcases some of the most dynamic music acts in Brittany and beyond. Featuring an eclectic mix of styles, La Fête du Bruit offers something for every musical taste.

In addition to headline performances from established artists, the festival also seeks to shine a light on up-and-coming talent from the region. The atmosphere is romantic and festive due to the presence of zealous crowds and delightful Breton folk music floating in the air. It’s certainly not something you want to miss!

La Fête du Bruit à Landerneau
La Fête du Bruit à Landerneau

 

4. Festival International Nuits Secrètes

Festival International Nuits Secrètes is an annual international music and arts festival held in Picardy, France. Since 2004, the event has taken place in different locations throughout the region with a focus on heritage and identity. A unique selling point is that the lineup includes both old and new bands from around the world who provide attendees with some interesting music choices.

The artists have included big names such as Snoop Dogg, Afrika Bammbataa, Kraftwerk, Moloko, and Oliver Khaya Ngcawuzele to mention a few. Along with the main concert evenings, there are many activities planned for families and children including theatre productions, exhibitions and sports activities. Festival International Nuits Secrètes provides a memorable experience for all involved and looks set to keep going from strength to strength year after year.

Festival International Nuits Secrètes
Festival International Nuits Secrètes

 

5. Les Vieilles Charrues

Les Vieilles Charrues is a music festival held annually in late July that brings together artists and musicians from all over France. First created in 1992, the event has now become an internationally renowned event, drawing thousands of fans every year. Artists who have participated in the festival include artists such as Muse, Alt-J, David Guetta, LSD, and Louane.

Many genres are represented at the festival: rock, electro, hip hop, rap and more. The event also includes activities such as conferences and workshops run by a dedicated team of professionals from different disciplines involved in the music industry. This year’s edition will take place from July 18th thru 21st on La Grande Scène of Kerampuilh near Carhaix in Brittany for 4 days of nonstop music, theater and other forms of art entertainment.

Les Vieilles Charrues
Les Vieilles Charrues

 

6. Nice Jazz Festival

The Nice Jazz Festival is an annual celebration of jazz music that takes place in the beautiful French city of Nice. Held since 1948, it has become one of the world’s most prestigious jazz events and has attracted some of the biggest jazz musicians from around the world. It lasts for nine days and offers attendees plenty of opportunities to enjoy art exhibitions and other cultural events as well as music.

The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, with enthusiasts from all over enjoying different genres and styles of jazz. If you’re looking for a dynamic event where you can immerse yourself in rich musical culture, then the Nice Jazz Festival is sure to leave you impressed.

Nice Jazz Festival
Nice Jazz Festival

 

7. La Foire aux Vins de Colmar

La Foire aux Vins de Colmar, or the Colmar Wine Fair, is held every other year in Colmar, France. First held in 1923, it has now become one of the most important wine shows in Alsace. This bustling event showcases a huge selection of wines from all over France and beyond, with more than 150 producers from the region taking part.

Of course, this annual celebration of wine isn’t just about pouring a glass and tasting – there are also masterclasses, workshops for entrepreneurs and winemakers alike, even wine tastings for the general public. With so much to offer at La Foire aux Vins de Colmar, you’re sure to find something that satisfies even the pickiest palate!

La Foire aux Vins de Colmar
La Foire aux Vins de Colmar

 

8. Festival des Vieilles Charrues à Carhaix-Plouguer

The Festival des Vieilles Charrues is an annual music festival held in Carhaix-Plouguer, France. It is one of the oldest and largest music festivals in Europe and ranks as the third biggest music festival in the world. Since its inception in 1992, the event has attracted musicians from different musical genres including rock, jazz, hip hop, electronic and classical.

The three-day extravaganza also features exhibitions, street performances and other activities for guests’ entertainment. More than 200,000 people attend the festival each year to enjoy a wide range of live acts and events. As one of Europe’s most iconic festivals with more than 700 artists performing on 25 stages each year, Festival des Vieilles Charrues offers something special for everyone from culture aficionados to partygoers.

Festival des Vieilles Charrues à Carhaix-Plouguer
Festival des Vieilles Charrues à Carhaix-Plouguer

 

In conclusion

France is home to many fantastic music festivals that cater to a variety of different tastes and interests. Whether you’re looking for rock, pop, EDM or traditional Celtic tunes, there’s sure to be an event that will satisfy your musical desires. From Les Eurockéennes de Belfort in the east to La Foire aux Vins de Colmar in the southwest, the country has plenty to offer for music lovers.

Each of these festivals presents a unique experience and promises an unforgettable time for all who attend. If you’re looking for some truly amazing music events then France is definitely the place to be!

 


Simply France
Simply France

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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