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Festival Interceltique de Lorient

The 55th Festival Interceltique de Lorient is a premier ten-day celebration of Celtic culture held in Lorient, France. Widely considered the largest gathering of its kind, the event brings together performers from various Celtic nations and their diasporas for a massive program of traditional music and dance.

Date
Jul 31 - Aug 9, 2026
Location
Lorient
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Festival Interceltique de Lorient

Event summary

Highlights

  • World's largest Celtic gathering attracting nearly one million visitors
  • La Grande Parade featuring performers from across the Celtic world
  • Special 2026 dedication highlighting the culture of Cornwall
  • Five-night pipe band spectacle held in the Lorient football stadium
Scheduled for July 31 to August 9, 2026, this major international festival transforms the Breton town of Lorient into a hub of cultural exchange. The event attracts approximately one million visitors and features thousands of artists representing regions such as Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Asturias, and Galicia, as well as Celtic communities from North America. The 2026 edition marks the first time the region of Cornwall receives a special dedication at the festival.

The diverse program includes the televised La Grande Parade and five nights of large-scale pipe band performances staged at the local football stadium. Attendees can also participate in an Interceltique summer school, art exhibitions, and various cultural classes. A significant Irish delegation traditionally participates, promoting the Irish language alongside traditional music and sean-nós singing to a global audience.

Practical details

Location described by the source
Lorient
donegalnews.com
Area for browsing nearby events
Lorient

Before attending

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Sources and further information

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Location map

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