Guide to unmissable musical events in French-speaking Switzerland. Ready, set, go!
it's here! Festival season is well and truly back. Musical events are multiplying all over the world, and French-speaking Switzerland is also home to a spectacular array of festivals, each more ambitious than the last. In this article, we present a (non-exhaustive) list of not-to-be-missed festivals, so that all music lovers can find what they're looking for. We're off!
Sion sous les étoiles
- Date: July 12 to 16, 2023
- Location: Plaine du tourbillon, Sion
- Headliners: Big Flo & Oli, Florent Pagny, Soprano, Gims & Dadju, Mika, Matt Pokora, Tayc, Louis Bertignac,...
The Sion sous les étoiles festival is the major musical event that every good Valaisan cherishes. Nestled at the foot of the Alps, the festival offers a spectacular natural setting, and the people of Sion know it well! The varied program features renowned local and international artists covering a wide range of musical genres. The on-stage performances are impressive, with large-scale infrastructures. The convivial atmosphere creates a real community of music enthusiasts, confirming once again that the people of the Valais have a flair for festivities. The festival also offers food stalls and relaxation areas. By taking part in Sion sous les étoiles, you'll enjoy an unforgettable musical experience in an enchanting setting.
Festi'Neuch
- Date: June 15-18, 2023
- Place: Plages des Jeunes Rives, Neuchâtel
- Headliners: Angèle, Moderat, Kendji Girac, M83, Marc Lavoine, Jain, Disiz, Folamour, Pomme...
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Festi Neuch, the music festival that brings the city of Neuchâtel to life. With its enchanting lakeside location, Festi Neuch offers several stages in the "bordu" where festival-goers can enjoy concerts with their feet (or almost) in the water. Its varied and audacious program explores different musical genres, featuring renowned international artists, but not only. The festival gives emerging talents the chance to perform on the Tide stage, as part of the "Dimension Jeunes Talents" program. A great way to showcase local talent. Festi Neuch is also renowned for its festive, convivial atmosphere, where chance encounters and passionate exchanges create a real communion between festival-goers. In addition to concerts, the festival offers complementary activities such as food stalls, relaxation areas and art exhibitions, adding an artistic and immersive dimension to the experience. Festi Neuch is a must for music lovers, offering a unique musical experience in the heart of Neuchâtel.
Estivale Open Air
- Date: July 26-29, 2023
- Location: Estavayer le Lac.
- Headliners: Lomepal, Gotthard, Mc Solaar, PLK, HAMZA, Lorenzo, Pat Burgener
Just cross Lake Neuchâtel and you're in the midst of another not-to-be-missed event: the Estival Open Air in Estavayer. Located in a picturesque setting, the Estival Open Air offers an unforgettable musical experience in the heart of nature. With an eclectic and captivating program, the festival features renowned local and international artists, covering a variety of musical genres from rock to electro. The festival's electrifying atmosphere creates a real communion between festival-goers, offering chance encounters, passionate exchanges and a festive atmosphere. In addition to fiery concerts, Estival Open Air offers a range of complementary activities, from food stalls to art installations, to enrich the festival experience. Experience magical, vibrant moments at the Estival Open Air in Estavayer, where music and nature come together to create a memorable summer experience.
Francomanias
- Date: August 30 to September 2
- Location: Bulle (Fribourg)
- Headliners: Suzane, Odezenne, Luidji, Adé, Zaho de Sagazan, Etienne de Crécy, Voyou, French 79...
Since its creation in 1990, the Francomanias festival has become one of the major musical events in French-speaking Switzerland. Every year, the town of Bulle transforms itself into a gathering place for internationally renowned artists and emerging talents, while showcasing the French-speaking world in song. It's a real gamble, and one that has paid off handsomely! Concerts take place in emblematic venues around the city, offering an intimate atmosphere and unique proximity to the artists. In addition to the musical performances, the festival offers a variety of food stalls and bars to satisfy festival-goers' taste buds. Les Francomanias is also known for creating a festive and convivial atmosphere, where strolling and artistic discovery are in the spotlight. With its free access, the festival invites all music lovers to join this unique experience in the heart of Bulle.
Venoge Festival
- Date: August 16-19
- Location: Penthaz
- Headliners: The Prodigy, Gloria Gaynor, Afrojack, Rag'N'Bone Man, Dropkick Murphys, Sister Sledge, Ofenbach, Texas, SCH...
The Venoge Festival, the biggest open-air music festival in the Gros de Vaud and Lausanne region, was born in the 90s in Penthalaz. Since its 20th anniversary in 2014, the festival has undergone remarkable expansion and now offers international and local programming spread over five days at the end of summer, with a specific theme each evening. In 2022, the Venoge Festival moved to a larger site in Penthaz. By combining open-air concerts and festivities, the Venoge Festival has rapidly become a not-to-be-missed musical and festive event in French-speaking Switzerland. It offers festival-goers a unique experience, combining internationally renowned musical performances with a festive atmosphere.
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