Festival Days Off

Festival Days Off: The Philharmonie de Paris's Musical Summer

Launched in 2010 by the Cité de la Musique (now Philharmonie de Paris), Festival Days Off was born from a captivating idea: to offer, in the heart of summer, when Paris empties and major venues close their doors, a contemporary music festival in one of the world's most beautiful musical complexes. The name "Days Off"—literally "days of rest"—evokes this summer interlude, this suspended time when music takes its summer residence.

In 2026, the festival celebrates its 16th edition, confirming its unique place in the Parisian festival landscape: an indoor festival, counter to large open-air gatherings, that prioritizes acoustic quality, proximity to artists, and a distinctive programming.

A Program of Creators and Singular Artists

The strength of Days Off lies in its ability to bring together unclassifiable artists, creators who transcend genres and formats. The programming subtly blends pop, rock, folk, electronic, hip-hop, and contemporary music, with a strong emphasis on ambitious artistic projects and unique performances.

Over the years, Days Off has hosted major and unique artists: Nick Cave, Beth Gibbons, Björk, Thom Yorke, PJ Harvey, Patti Smith, Bon Iver, James Blake, Tamino, and Babyshambles. The festival favors rare concerts and exclusive creations, offering audiences musical moments they won't find anywhere else.

The Philharmonie and Cité de la Musique: An Exceptional Setting

Days Off benefits from the exceptional setting of the Philharmonie de Paris, designed by architect Jean Nouvel, and the Cité de la Musique, designed by Christian de Portzamparc. The Grande Salle Pierre Boulez (2,400 seats), the Salle des concerts de la Cité de la Musique (900 seats), and more intimate spaces offer remarkable acoustic conditions, enhancing every concert.

An Intimate and Demanding Experience

Far from the mass-market logic of large summer festivals, Days Off offers a privileged listening experience. The controlled capacities, exceptional acoustics, and proximity to artists create a rare intimacy. Each concert is conceived as a unique moment, a meeting between an artist and an attentive audience.

A Festival That Enriches Parisian Summer

By offering a quality festival in the heart of summer, Days Off contributes to the cultural vibrancy of Paris during the summer period. The festival attracts a discerning audience of music lovers, as well as tourists and the curious, who discover the spaces of the Philharmonie de Paris in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.