The Festival de Cornouaille, a true symbol of Breton culture, will take place from July 18 to 21, 2024 in Quimper. The event showcases new Breton bands and serves as a springboard for young talent. With a varied program and activities for all ages, it attracts 150,000 visitors every year. Its huge dance floor, covering almost 1,000 m², will be the venue for numerous aperitif-concerts and festoù-noz. The public will also have the opportunity to attend two exceptional concerts!
Celebrating Breton culture in a festive atmosphere
The Festival de Cornouaille is one of the biggest events dedicated to celebrating Breton culture. You'll have the opportunity to attend traditional dance performances, Breton music concerts and discover the region's authentic costumes. It's a real immersion in the traditions and heritage of Brittany. This festival, rich in history, celebrated its centenary last year. Whether you're with family, friends or on your own, you'll quickly feel part of the festivities. The streets of Quimper come alive with parades, markets and street entertainment, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Visiting the region? Don't miss our Finistère must-sees
One of the largest Breton dance floors in the world!
Like last year, the organizers are putting the spotlight on the festoù-noz, the real stars of the festival. A huge 1,000 m² covered dance floor will be set up on Place de la Résistance, right in the heart of Quimper. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer, you'll be able to join in the dancing every evening, with learning workshops on offer during the day. And if you'd rather just listen and enjoy, you'll be delighted to see thousands of dancers celebrating Breton music, whether classical or electro. Among the artists not to be missed are Digresk, who mix rock, electro, hip-hop and traditional music, and Tekmao, with his bombard, Scottish bagpipes and DJ!
A varied and eclectic musical program
From traditional music to contemporary genres, the Festival de Cornouaille offers a program to suit all tastes. After mentioning, in the previous paragraph, groups mixing hip-hop and traditional music, let's underline the creation of Gwennyn, on July 18, at the Théâtre de Cornouaille, a guaranteed moment of grace for the festival. And don't miss Pêr Vari Kervarec's 'L'Héritage de Bretagne' at Saint-Corentin Cathedral on Sunday July 21. In addition to the shows, the festival offers numerous activities for all ages, including dance workshops, craft demonstrations, exhibitions and tastings of Breton specialities.
The Grand Parade: a must on Sunday
The Festival de Cornouaille parade kicks off at 10:30 am on Sunday, July 21. Thousands of sonneurs, playing traditional instruments such as the bombarde and the biniou in bagadoùs, will lead the procession, accompanied by Celtic circle dancers. The atmosphere is both convivial and festive, encouraging interaction between participants and the public. The parade is followed by two major events: the election of the Queen of Cornwall, which attracts thousands of spectators, and the Triomphe des Sonneurs, an intense moment that reaches an exceptional musical climax!
Discover also our 10 must-see festivals of summer 2024 in France!
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