Rock’n Solex
May
France’s oldest student festival, Rock’n Solex combines Solex (powered bicycle) racing by day with live music, traditional dancing and other festivities by night. It’s been running since 1967 and takes place over five days.
Les Tombées de la Nuit
July
Comprising more than a fortnight’s worth of arts events, street performances and one-off exhibitions, Les Tombées de la Nuit (‘Nightfalls’) is renowned for its anything-goes festival spirit and its use of unusual locations. Expect everything from rooftop plays to side street circus acts.
Yaouank
November
Meaning ‘young’ in Breton, Yaouank is an annual celebration of Breton music and can draw crowds of more than 10,000. It’s particularly famed for the huge ‘fest-noz’ (a traditional Breton dancing party) that takes place on the last night.
Festival Mettre en Scène
November
A high-class showcase for dance and theatre – and subsequently attracting large numbers of directors and choreographers – the Festival Mettre en Scène originated in Rennes and has since expanded to also include other towns in the region.
Les Rencontres Trans Musicales
December
The city’s biggest annual musical festival, Les Rencontres Trans Musicales has a reputation for uncovering up-and-coming acts, but has also played host to the likes of Daft Punk, the Beastie Boys and the Foo Fighters. It still has a commitment to promoting new musical genres.