La Folle Journée

La Folle Journée is an innovative and dynamic classical music festival that originated in Nantes, France, in 1995. The festival’s name, translating to “The Crazy Day,” is inspired by Pierre Beaumarchais’s play “The Marriage of Figaro,” whose subtitle is “La Folle Journée.” This reflects the festival’s spirit of intensity and abundance, offering a wide array of classical music performances within a compact timeframe, typically spanning several days.

The hallmark of La Folle Journée is its accessibility and appeal to a broad audience, including those who may not regularly attend classical music concerts. The festival achieves this through a format of short, engaging concerts—often lasting around 45 minutes each—allowing attendees to experience a variety of performances and styles in a single day. The programming is diverse, encompassing a wide range of classical music, from baroque to contemporary, performed by both renowned international artists and emerging talents.

Another unique aspect of La Folle Journée is its thematic approach. Each year, the festival centers around a specific theme, exploring it through different compositions and performances. This thematic focus enhances the educational aspect of the festival, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the music’s historical and cultural contexts. In 2025, La Folle Journee celebrates its 30th anniversary and the specific theme is “origines de la musique“.

La Folle Journée has grown significantly since its inception and has expanded beyond Nantes to other cities in France and internationally, including Japan, Spain, and Poland. These editions of the festival maintain the original’s spirit, celebrating classical music’s universal appeal and fostering a deeper appreciation among diverse audiences.

La Folle Journée is not just a music festival; it’s an immersive cultural experience that democratizes classical music, breaking down barriers between genres, performers, and the public. It encourages exploration, discovery, and the joy of shared musical experiences, making it one of the most beloved and innovative classical music festivals in the world.

Have a look at the offical website to find out more about this event and buy your tickets online.

Where to stay during La Folle Journée?

In Nantes, there’s a wide range of hotels catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are a few hotels that you might consider for your stay:

1. Okko Hotels Nantes Château: Located in the city center, close to the train station and Exhibition Center. This hotel features a 24-hour reception desk and free Wi-Fi, with an overall rating of 8.5.
2. Hotel Le Petit Duquesne: Situated in the city center, next to the Tramway, and a short walk from the airport shuttle and Nantes Main Bus Station. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, rated at 7.9.
3. Oceania l’Hôtel de France Nantes: A centrally located hotel, a 2-minute walk from Theatre Graslin, the Passage Pommeraye, and Place Royale. It’s known for its great staff, beautiful rooms, and a bar that goes the extra mile.
4. Mercure Nantes Centre Grand Hotel: Located in the downtown area, next to the Pommeraye Passage and a 10-minute walk from the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. The hotel boasts excellent location and breakfast, with a helpful and friendly front desk.
5. Radisson BLU Hotel, Nantes: Positioned in the city center and just 1.3 km from the Loire River, this hotel features 24-hour room service. It’s described as a highly elegant and historic luxury hotel with a very good rating.

For the most current information on rates and availability, it’s best to check their official websites or contact them directly.

Highlights of La Folle Journée

1. International Expansion: One of the significant achievements of La Folle Journée has been its successful expansion beyond France to countries like Japan, Spain, and Poland. This international presence underscores the festival’s universal appeal and its ability to connect with diverse audiences worldwide.
2. Thematic Exploration: Each year, the festival is organized around a central theme, allowing for a deep dive into specific composers, historical periods, or conceptual ideas within classical music. This thematic approach not only educates audiences but also showcases the richness and diversity of classical music, making each edition of the festival unique and memorable.
3. Renowned Performers: La Folle Journée has attracted some of the world’s leading classical musicians, orchestras, and ensembles, providing audiences with high-quality performances. The participation of acclaimed artists adds to the festival’s prestige and allows attendees to experience world-class music in an accessible format.
4. Community Engagement: Beyond the concert halls, La Folle Journée engages with the local community through educational workshops, free public performances, and outreach programs. These initiatives ensure that the festival’s impact extends beyond its primary audience, fostering a broader appreciation for classical music.
5. Economic Impact: The festival has also been recognized for its positive economic impact on Nantes and other host cities. Drawing thousands of visitors, it boosts local tourism and highlights the cultural vibrancy of the region.