Classical music in the heart of the forests of Compiègne and Laigue
Since 1993, the Festival des Forêts has been reinventing the concert experience by immersing classical music in the heart of nature. For three weeks between June and July, around twenty concerts and musical forest bathing sessions unfold in fifteen remarkable natural sites in the forests of Compiègne and Laigue, an hour from Paris. Two hundred artists, mixing young talents and internationally renowned musicians, share their passion in clearings, abbey ruins, and unusual places, creating a unique experience where music dialogues with the trees.
The Festival des Forêts is a unique event in France that has been combining classical music and nature since 1993. Every summer, for three weeks, the state forests of Compiègne and Laigue become the stage for exceptional concerts in natural and heritage settings of striking beauty.
The concerts take place in fifteen remarkable and unusual natural sites: ancient clearings, abbey ruins, forest chapels, pond edges, and majestic groves. This setting in extraordinary locations offers spectators an incomparable acoustic and sensory experience, where birdsong mingles with the musicians' melodies.
Each edition features around twenty concerts and six musical forest bathing sessions, bringing together nearly 200 artists. The program combines masterpieces from the classical repertoire with original creations, from intimate recitals to orchestral performances. The festival gives a prominent place to young talents while welcoming internationally renowned artists.
An innovation of the festival, the musical forest bathing sessions offer immersive experiences where music accompanies a meditative walk in the heart of nature. These special moments, between concert and forest stroll, perfectly illustrate the festival's philosophy.
The Festival des Forêts demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental preservation and raising public awareness of nature. Concert sites are chosen and developed with respect for biodiversity, and environmental mediation actions accompany the musical program.
Located in the Oise department, an hour from Paris by car or train, the festival benefits from an exceptional forest setting and remarkable accessibility. It is an invitation to leave the city to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Picardy forests and discover music in a new way.
34th edition of the Festival des Forêts. Three weeks of classical music in the forests of Compiègne and Laigue with 25 concerts, 6 musical forest bathing sessions, 200 artists, and 15 remarkable and unusual sites.
The Festival des Forêts returns for its 34th edition from June 21 to July 12, 2026. This edition emphasizes the diversity of the program and gives a prominent place to young talents who share the stage with internationally renowned artists. 25 concerts, 6 musical forest bathing sessions, 200 artists, and 15 remarkable and unusual sites are on the program.
Fifteen remarkable natural sites in the forests of Compiègne and Laigue. The exact locations are communicated upon ticket purchase.
By train: Compiègne station, direct connections from Paris-Nord (approx. 50 minutes).
By car: A1 motorway exit Compiègne. Parking lots are available near the concert venues.
Tickets available on the festival's official online ticketing service. Prices vary depending on the concert.
Bring footwear suitable for forest walking and comfortable clothing. Chairs and cushions are usually provided at the concert venues.
Website: festivaldesforets.fr
Numerous hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guesthouses are available in the town and its surroundings. The local tourist office can help you find accommodation to suit your budget and needs. It is advisable to book in advance during the festival period, as accommodation can be in high demand.
The organizers strive to make the festival accessible to as many people as possible. People with reduced mobility are invited to contact the organization before the event to prepare their visit and benefit from the best possible reception conditions.
The festival is suitable for families with children. Activities and dedicated areas are planned for the younger ones. Strollers are generally accepted on site, but it is advisable to check the access conditions according to the performance venues.
For any additional information about the festival, its program, prices, and access conditions, do not hesitate to consult the event's official website or contact the organizers directly. The festival's social media channels regularly broadcast updated news and practical information.
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Forêts de Compiègne et de Laigue