The Festival de la Saint-Loup is France’s largest Breton dance festival, held annually in Guingamp since 1957. This iconic event gathers thousands of dancers in traditional costumes, showcasing Brittany’s rich culture. Over five days, enjoy colorful parades, spirited competitions, and lively ‘fest-noz’ dances accompanied by the engaging sounds of biniads and bombards. The historic streets come alive with colorful attire, merging tradition and modern celebration that entertains both participants and spectators alike. In and feel the heart of Breton heritage.
Tag: local music
Festival des vieux gréements de Paimpol: Maritime Music
The Festival des vieux gréements de Paimpol transforms the port into a open-air stage for three days. Visitors can enjoy a variety of concerts, shows, and cultural activities set against a backdrop of historic sailing ships, showcasing the maritime heritage of Brittany. The main stage features performances by popular artists such as Axel Bauer, Eiffel, and Archimède, while a separate stage spotlights local talent and traditional music, creating a rich and diverse musical experience. This festival celebrates not just local culture but also the beauty of Paimpol’s maritime history, making it essential for anyone exploring the region during this time.
Festival de la Lanterne in Combourg: Musical Celebration
The Festival de la Lanterne will bring an exciting night of music to Combourg, Brittany, on August 22, 2026. From 6:30 PM to midnight, over ten musical groups will perform across six stages. Audiences can enjoy a variety of genres, including rock, rap, blues, folk, and world music, promising a richly diverse listening experience. A standout moment of the evening will be the Fest Noz on Place de l’Eglise, celebrating traditional Breton music and dance. The festivities will begin with street performances throughout the town’s bars and shops, generating a local atmosphere. Additionally, a “guinguette” area in the Cour des Arts will offer musical refreshments in a picturesque setting. This year, the festival enhances its theme with atmospheric lanterns and garlands illuminating the town, creating an atmospheric ambiance. Locals and visitors in celebrating through music and culture in this location.
Festival des Brodeuses in Pont-l’Abbé: Orchestral Fusion
The Festival des Brodeuses features a collaboration between Bagad Cap Caval and Modkozmik, promising a musical experience. Set to take place on July 10, 2026, at the Centre culturel Triskell in Pont-l’Abbé, this concert will blend traditional orchestral music with contemporary elements. The focus is on showcasing a rich repertoire while exploring modern dynamics, making it a must-see event for music lovers.
Fest-Noz in Moëlan-sur-Mer: Dance Celebration
The Fest-Noz at Port de Brigneau takes place on June 20, 2026, as part of the Fête de la Musique. This traditional Breton dance festival features local talents, including musicians and singers from the Quimperlé region. Kicking off at 7:30 PM, the event invites both community members and visitors to enjoy traditional music and participate in lively dances. With no reservations required, everyone can join in this cultural celebration, making it a perfect evening for locals and tourists alike.
Fête de la Musique in Camors: Summer Music Fest
Camors will celebrate its inaugural Fête de la Musique at Le Petit Bois from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. This free event offers a lively atmosphere to enjoy music and community together. The lineup spotlights local artists including Coat Bihan, Bagad Bleidi Kamorh, Sezam, and more. Attendees will find a variety of food and drinks from local partners, ensuring a varied evening. This summer celebration in Brittany.
Let’s Swing in Locoal-Mendon: Choral Showcase
“Let’s Swing” Festival de chorales “Chants libres” takes place in Locoal-Mendon on June 26, 2026. Organized by the Maîtrise de Sainte-Anne-d’Auray, this event introduces children to music through choral singing. The choir comprises the Pré-maîtrise for elementary students, the Maîtrise for middle schoolers, and the Ensemble vocal for high school students. Known for its vocal excellence, the choir’s repertoire ranges from Western sacred music to contemporary and traditional Breton pieces. Training includes singing, choir practice, and workshops on Gregorian chant and Breton culture. Expect a night of choral music as the choirs showcase their talents. Attendance is free, but booking is essential to secure your place. This festival reflects the choir’s rich history, including performances of significant works and participation in prestigious events.
Les Mardis de Plougasnou: Fanch Le Marrec & Groupe Celtic de Guimaëc
Les Mardis de Plougasnou presents free open-air concerts every Tuesday evening throughout the summer, located in front of the church. Each event features two performances at 7 PM and 8:30 PM, showcasing a wide array of music genres including pop, folk, jazz, fest-noz, sea shanties, world music, and Celtic sounds. Featured artists include Fanch Le Marrec and the Groupe Celtic de Guimaëc. If the weather turns unfavorable, concerts will move to the municipal hall. It’s an excellent chance for both locals and visitors to engage with Brittany’s rich musical culture during atmospheric summer evenings.
Rando des Bois in Plozévet: Charity Hike
The Rando des Bois celebrates its 11th edition on June 21, 2026, inviting participants to explore beautiful nature trails while supporting a charitable cause. Organized by the Comité de Sauvegarde de Saint-Ronan, this event features hiking routes of 5, 9, or 14 kilometers, available to hikers from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. Attendees can experience the historic charm of the St-Ronan chapel, complete with its fountain and sarcophagus. All proceeds will enhance conditions at the pediatric ward of Quimper hospital, ensuring a meaningful experience for participants. A highlight includes a scenic 4-kilometer walk accompanied by Dastum Bro Gerne, featuring both Breton and French songs, starting at 2:30 PM. Each hiker will enjoy a complimentary drink at the finish, along with a country-style meal served from noon, featuring an aperitif, paella, dessert, and coffee, for just €15 (€8 for children under 12). The event promises engaging free entertainment, including a vintage vehicle exhibition, musical performances, and a dedicated children’s area filled with games. Dastum Bro Gerne will also perform a concert at the chapel at 5:30 PM. The Rando des Bois features an enriching combination of nature, heritage, and charity. Free parking will be available nearby, and reservations are recommended on the official website.
Fête de la musique in Moëlan-Sur-Mer: Musical Celebration
The Fête de la musique returns to Moëlan-Sur-Mer, celebrating the joy of music with a variety of events. On June 18 at 8:00 p.m., kick off the festivities with a performance by the Cœur en Chœur choir at the beautiful Saint-Philibert Chapel. The celebrations continue on June 20, starting at 4:30 p.m. with the MoëBlan à Vent ensemble performing at the chapel. Later that evening, enjoy a traditional fest-noz at 8:30 p.m. at the picturesque Port de Brigneau, hosted by Penn Sardines. The night features multiple concerts in the church square, showcasing local talents like Les Trucks at 7:00 p.m., followed by Roxane Ryan at 8:30 p.m., and concluding with Les Rody’s at 10:00 p.m. This remarkable celebration highlights the musical heritage of Brittany and fosters community spirit.