Festivals in Brittany 2025

Introduction

Ah, Brittany! Just the name evokes images of wild coastlines battered by the winds, mysterious megaliths planted in golden moors, and fest-noz pulsating with the spirited sounds of the bombarde and biniou. In 2025, the Breton region once again promises an exceptional programme of festivals, true showcases of its rich and vibrant heritage.

Every summer, thousands of visitors flock to Lorient, Quimper, Rennes, or the Crozon Peninsula, drawn by the warm atmosphere and enchanting sounds of Brittany. Whether it's to feel the rhythm of a bagad, savour a crispy galette, or dance a gavotte under the stars, Breton festivals offer a unique experience, blending centuries-old traditions with bold modernity.

Why is Brittany a hotspot for festivals ?

Have you ever wondered why Brittany has so many festivals? It's no coincidence. It reflects a culture deeply rooted in conviviality, sharing, and celebration. Here, every village, every town, every corner of moorland is imbued with an irresistible desire to celebrate its roots and pass on its heritage.

The cultural diversity of Brittany is fascinating: between Celtic heritage, maritime traditions, and a strong attachment to the Breton language, the region overflows with riches waiting to be discovered. Celebrate this through music, dance, storytelling or gastronomy, what could be more natural ? 

Another reason for the success: the setting. It's impossible to resist the allure of stages set against the ocean, concerts in the cobbled squares of medieval towns like Quimper or Vannes, or performances in the open moors, where gorse and broom scent the air with a wild fragrance.

Finally, the Bretons know how to welcome. Their sense of hospitality is legendary. Here, you will be greeted with a genuine smile, a refreshing bowl of cider, and perhaps even a slice of kouign-amann for the journey.

The must-see festivals in Brittany in 2025

1. Interceltic Festival of Lorient : the global meeting point for Celtic cultures

The Interceltic Festival of Lorient, taking place from 2nd to 10th August 2025, promises an absolutely grand edition. For ten days, the city of Lorient transforms into a bustling crossroads where Celtic cultures from around the world come together. Irish, Scottish, Welsh, Acadian, Galician, Asturian and of course Breton, gather to share their music, dance, language and heritage.

The 2025 programme includes :

• Monumental concerts featuring iconic groups from the contemporary and traditional Celtic scene.
• Parades of Celtic nations with traditional costumes, bagadoù and Celtic circles.
• Prestigious competitions such as those for bagadoù and bombarde and biniou players.
• Initiations to Breton dances (fest-noz for beginners).
• Street performances, exhibitions, craft markets, and tastings of Breton specialities (cider, crêpes, kouign-amann).

All in a festive and warm atmosphere, driven by the pride of keeping alive and shining a shared heritage through generations.

2. Festival of Cornouaille in Quimper : cultural immersion

For over a century, the Festival of Cornouaille has enlivened the heart of Quimper by celebrating all aspects of Breton culture. From 24th to 27th July 2025, the capital of Cornouaille will be adorned with Breton flags, intoxicating music, and traditional dances.

In 2025, here’s what to expect :

• Grand parades of traditional costumes, where hundreds of Bretons proudly march in regional attire.
• Performances by Celtic circles showcasing the various dances of the region.
• Diverse concerts ranging from traditional Breton music to more modern fusions blending electronic and Celtic instruments.
• Highly sought-after dance and music competitions where the competition is fierce and passionate.
• Language workshops to learn some basics of the Breton language and immerse oneself in its richness.

The Cornouaille Festival is not just an event : it is a total immersion in Breton identity, through its folklore, gastronomy, and live arts.

3. Les Vieilles Charrues in Carhaix : musical eclecticism

Unmissable, the Les Vieilles Charrues festival in Carhaix is one of the largest music festivals in Europe. Here, Brittany opens up to all kinds of music : rock, electro, pop, rap, French chanson, and even world music. In 2025, expect an explosive lineup, mixing international headliners with promising discoveries. And of course, it's impossible to leave Carhaix without tasting the local galettes accompanied by a good bowl of cider!

Mark your calendars for 17th to 20th July 2025 !

4. La Route du Rock in Saint-Malo : maritime vibrations

For lovers of indie rock and a salty atmosphere, La Route du Rock in Saint-Malo is a must. Set between the corsair city and wild beaches, the festival offers a unique musical experience facing the ocean. The 2025 edition promises a carefully curated selection of artists from around the world, in a setting that combines historical heritage, maritime legends, and sonic modernity.

Mark your calendars for 13th to 16th August 2025 !

5. Festival du Bout du Monde in Crozon : world music

At the tip of the Crozon peninsula, in a postcard-perfect setting, the Festival du Bout du Monde has been celebrating global musical diversity for over twenty years. Here, the sounds from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Europe resonate among moorland, gorse, and granite. An invitation to travel without leaving Brittany! In 2025, the programme promises to be richer than ever, with particular attention given to the preservation of the site's exceptional natural environment.

Join us from 1st to 3rd August 2025 !

Breton music and dance in the spotlight

If Brittany vibrates to the sound of festivals, it is primarily due to its incredible musical and choreographic heritage. Here, music is not just an art form: it is a way of being, a breath, a link between generations.

The fest-noz : a timeless celebration

The fest-noz, literally "night festival", is at the heart of Breton identity. Imagine human circles forming spontaneously, couples of dancers twirling to the hypnotic sound of the bombarde and the biniou. Far from being a static performance, it is a genuine moment of communion. People dance the gavotte, the plinn, the an dro, with steps that may seem simple but reveal much about the Breton joy of life.

In 2025, numerous fest-noz will be organised alongside the major festivals, offering an authentic experience that you must absolutely experience if you want to feel the heartbeat of Brittany.

Bombarde and biniou : the emblematic instruments

As soon as the bombarde, this traditional Breton oboe with its powerful sound, resonates, it is impossible not to shiver. The biniou, cousin of the Scottish bagpipe, responds with an equally raw and vibrant energy. Together, they form an explosive duo capable of making even the shyest dance.

Every Breton festival pays tribute to these ancestral instruments. Don’t be surprised to encounter competitions of bombarde and biniou players in Lorient or Quimper, where young talents compete in virtuosity to uphold this demanding art.

Bagad : the quintessential Breton brass band

Imagine around fifty musicians armed with bagpipes, bombardes, and snare drums marching in a martial step under a blazing sun. Welcome to the world of bagadoù! True orchestras of Breton music, bagadoù impress with their sound power and precision of play.

The Interceltic Festival of Lorient hosts the famous bagad competition each year, where the best formations from Brittany compete in an electric atmosphere. In 2025, prepare to be transported by original compositions that blend tradition with modern creations.

Celtic circles : guardians of traditions

Celtic circles are associations that perpetuate Breton traditions through dance, music, costumes, and folk arts. True living conservatories, they participate in almost all major festivals, offering performances that combine authenticity and modernity.

During the Cornouaille Festival in Quimper or the Festival of the Blue Nets in Concarneau, you will have the opportunity to admire these groups performing in sumptuous traditional costumes, high headdresses, and fine embroidery sparkling under the summer sun.

Conclusion

Brittany is not just a region; it is a soul, a world apart, where millennia-old traditions blend with modernity, where the ocean sings and the land tells stories. In 2025, Breton festivals promise you rich experiences in music, dance, gastronomy, and legends.

Whether you are drawn by the hypnotic sound of the bagad, the sweetness of a Celtic harp, the scent of salted caramel, or the mystical call of a dolmen, Brittany will enchant and captivate you. So, are you ready to don your clogs and raise your bowl of cider for an unforgettable summer?

Q&A

What are the Breton festivals not to be missed in 2025 ?
The Interceltic Festival of Lorient, the Cornouaille Festival in Quimper, Les Vieilles Charrues in Carhaix, La Route du Rock in Saint-Malo, and the Festival of the End of the World in Crozon are essential.

Can we attend festoù-noz during the festivals ?
Yes, many festivals offer festoù-noz open to everyone, perfect for discovering traditional Breton dance in a festive atmosphere.

What typical dishes can be enjoyed during the festivals ?
Crêpes, galettes, kouign-amann, far breton, andouille, kig ha farz and seafood are on the menu, accompanied by a good local cider.

Are Breton festivals suitable for children ?
Yes, many festivals offer workshops for children: an introduction to Breton dance, storytelling, traditional games, and even Breton cooking.

Where can one find accommodation during the festivals ?
Campsites, gîtes, hotels, and bed and breakfasts are available near festival sites, but it is advisable to book early, especially in peak season!