The Brittany Music Festival That Draws Thousands Every Year

Nobody expected a small French coastal town to become the home of Europe’s most talked-about summer music festival. 

Every July, Carhaix pulls off something extraordinary. For four wild days, the population jumps from 7,000 to over 280,000 as music fans take over for the Brittany music festival. 

Here’s all you need to know about the Vieilles Charrues Festival.

The Vieilles Charrues Festival

The Vieilles Charrues Festival (that’s “Old Plows” in English) isn’t your regular music event. 

Starting as a small local gathering in 1992, it has grown into a massive celebration that brings together both world-famous artists and emerging talents. 

The festival happens in a massive field that transforms into four unique stages and endless rows of food stalls serving everything from fresh seafood to traditional Breton crepes.

The four stages each have their own character and history:

• Glenmor Stage: This massive is named after Emile Le Scanff (known as Glenmor), and is one of the largest in France with an impressive 1,000 square meters of space. 
• Kerouac Stage: It’s named after writer Jack Kerouac who had Breton ancestors and serves as the festival’s second main stage.
• Grall Stage: Hip-hop and electronic music fans gather at the Grall Stage which is named after Xavier Grall.
• Gwernig Stage: The cozy Gwernig Stage sits under a circus tent and hosts Breton and world music acts, honoring Breton-American poet Youenn Gwernig.

Over the years, the festival has hosted some major acts across these stages. The festival grounds in Carhaix, Brittany, can hold up to 70,000 people each day. 

But even with so many people, it never feels too crowded because the organizers are smart about spreading out the stages, food areas, and rest spots.

Getting there and Where to Stay

The festival takes place in Carhaix, a town in central Brittany, and while it’s more remote than coastal cities, there are several ways to reach the festival site.

1. By Train: The nearest major train station is Guingamp. From Paris, take a train to Guingamp (3.5 hours), then use the festival’s special shuttle service to Carhaix.

2. By Air: The closest airports are: Brest Airport (85 km) and Rennes Airport (147 km). Both have festival shuttle connections during the event.

3. By Car: Carhaix is accessible via: N164 from Rennes and D787 from Guingamp. Free and paid parking options available at the festival (must be booked in advance)

Accommodation options include:

• Festival Camping (included with 4-day passes)
• VIP Camping with pre-set tents
• Hotels in Carhaix (limited and book up early)
• Nearby towns like Rostrenen and Huelgoat offer additional options
• Local guesthouses and B&Bs
• The official festival website lists approved accommodation partners

The Music Experience

The festival’s four stages keep music playing from early afternoon until past midnight. The Glenmor Stage regularly hosts headline acts that draw the biggest crowds. 

In recent years, the festival has featured major names like Orelsan, who lit up the stage in 2022, and Arctic Monkeys’ memorable 2023 set. 

The French music scene also takes center stage, with artists like Stromae and Indochine regularly returning to perform.

Each stage has its own schedule and style so you can get a more personal experience depending on your music taste.

Food and Local Culture

The festival puts Brittany’s food front and center. Local food vendors serve up traditional galettes, fresh crêpes, and regional specialties. 

You’ll find everything from quick snacks to full meals, with plenty of options for all diets. Food prices stay reasonable for a festival this size, with meals typically ranging from €8 to €15.

Festival organizers work closely with local producers and restaurants to showcase Breton cuisine. The food area spreads out across the festival grounds, so you’re never far from a bite to eat or a drink. 

Most vendors accept card payments, but it’s smart to carry some cash just in case.

Making the Most of Your Time

The festival’s official app helps you plan your days with real-time updates about performances, wait times, and any schedule changes. Download it before you arrive to map out your must-see acts. 

The grounds open at noon each day, with music starting around 2 PM and the last acts finishing around 3 AM. Between shows, you’ll find art installations and cultural exhibits spread across the site. 

The festival works with local artists to create unique spaces where you can take a break from the crowds. These are good spots to rest and grab some shade during hot afternoon hours.

Festival Tips From Regular Attendees

Getting the most out of Vieilles Charrues means coming prepared for anything, from sunshine to sudden showers.

• Pack rain boots and waterproof gear as the grounds often get muddy, especially after rain
• Bring both sunscreen and a rain jacket since Brittany’s weather changes fast
• Get a good sleeping bag rated for cool weather as temperatures drop at night, even in July
• Load up on portable chargers since phone charging stations often have long waits
• Pack a small foldable chair or blanket for resting between shows
• Bring a reusable water bottle to use at the free water stations
• Set up your tent early when the camping area opens the day before the festival
• Keep some cash handy even though most vendors take cards
• Pack light layers of clothing to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day
• Bring a small flashlight or headlamp for navigating the campsite at night

With these packed, you can focus on enjoying the music instead of worrying about comfort or convenience.

Environmental Impact

The festival takes clear steps to reduce its environmental footprint. Every ticket includes a reusable cup for drinks, cutting down plastic waste. 

They’ve set up water stations throughout the grounds where you can refill bottles for free. Also, recycling bins are everywhere, clearly marked for different types of waste.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Vieilles Charrues Festival, running July 17-20, marks another year of bringing outstanding music to central Brittany. 

Early announcements hint at some big names but organizers like to keep everyone guessing until the big reveal in March. 

While each year brings changes and improvements, the festival keeps its local roots strong. The 2025 festival is scheduled to run from Thursday, July 17 to Sunday, July 20, and 

Your Next Summer Adventure

Whether you come for the music, the food, or the atmosphere, the Vieilles Charrues Festival offers an unforgettable experience. 

Whether you come for the international headliners or Breton culture, pack sensibly, plan ahead, and get ready for four days of non-stop music in France’s largest festival.