Mercuria Festival

An international gathering in the heart of Berry

The Mercuria Festival is an international folklore festival founded in 1989 by the Mercuria association in Argenton-sur-Creuse, in the Indre department. Every summer, on the third or fourth weekend of July, approximately 160 dancers, musicians, and singers from around the world converge on this small town in Berry to share their dances, music, and traditions.

Three days of celebration and discovery

The festival takes place over three intense days. On Friday evening, the public is invited to an introduction to Berry dances for children and adults, followed by a shared aperitif and a friendly picnic, then the Bal des Nations at 9 PM and a Bal Trad & Folk from 10:30 PM. On Saturday, a grand parade of groups in traditional costumes crosses the town center at 11 AM, followed by concerts at Square Charles de Gaulle from 2 PM to 6 PM. On Sunday, traditional dance performances continue with the various invited groups.

A journey through world cultures

Over the years, the Mercuria Festival has hosted folk groups from countries as diverse as Bali, Chile, Madagascar, the United States, Mexico, Moldova, Panama, as well as French regions like Alsace and Berry. The vibrant colors of the traditional costumes, the captivating rhythms, and the ancestral choreographies offer a true cultural journey, accessible to all and free of charge.

The Mercuria association, guardian of traditions

The Mercuria association, behind the festival, aims to promote intangible heritage through the presentation of regional and international dances and music. It works throughout the year to build relationships with folk companies from around the world and organize this unifying event that makes Argenton-sur-Creuse shine far beyond the borders of Berry.