Festival Les Rabardels

A French Chanson Festival Rooted in Champagne Spring

Created in 2000 by the MJC Centre Social Jean Guillemin in Romilly-sur-Seine, the Festival Les Rabardels bears an evocative name: in Champagne dialect, “rabardels” refers to spring dances and songs. Every year, in March, this festive and convivial event transforms Romilly-sur-Seine into an open stage for French chanson in all its forms, from lyrical songs to folk and world music sung in French.

A Demanding and Accessible Program

The festival stands out for its ability to introduce or reintroduce talented artists from the French-speaking scene. Over the years, audiences have been able to applaud artists as diverse as Camille, Weepers Circus, Les Hurlements de Léo, Ange, Lo'Jo, Alexis HK, Christophe Mali, Clarika, and Da Silva. The program mixes headliners and discoveries, offering a privileged showcase for emerging artists as well as local groups who benefit from professional conditions to perform on stage.

A Strong Social and Cultural Commitment

Supported by the MJC, a popular education organization, the Festival Les Rabardels is part of a cultural democratization initiative. Access to culture for all, the development of intergenerational links, and the promotion of local associative life are at the heart of the project. Workshops, activities, and encounters with artists complement the musical program, making the festival a true highlight of Romilly life.

Romilly-sur-Seine, an Industrial and Cultural City

Romilly-sur-Seine, a sub-prefecture of the Aube department located in the Seine valley, is a town with a rich industrial past. The Festival Les Rabardels contributes to its cultural influence by attracting a loyal audience each spring, coming from the entire department and beyond, to celebrate the vitality of French chanson in a warm and popular atmosphere.