Festival of World Cultures

A festival rooted in the history of Dauphiné

The Festival of World Cultures of Voiron-Chartreuse was born in 1983 on the initiative of ATP Salmorenc, a folk group created in Voiron in 1960. The primary mission of ATP Salmorenc is to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Dauphiné, an inheritance that had largely disappeared in the mid-19th century following the industrial revolution that the region had experienced. It is in this spirit of preservation and sharing that the festival was created, with the ambition of building bridges between cultures from all over the world.

Folk groups from five continents

Each summer, the festival hosts traditional music and dance groups from all corners of the globe. The invited countries vary from one edition to another, offering a new cultural journey each year. Since its creation, over 150 foreign troupes and more than 3,500 dancers, singers, and musicians have graced the stages and streets of Voiron and the towns of Chartreuse, representing dozens of countries and traditions.

A rich and varied program

The festival is structured around several highlights:

• Opening Ceremony with a concert-bal hosted by musicians from the invited countries, artisan market, and evening gourmet market
• Street performances and entertainment in the streets of Voiron and the towns of Chartreuse
• Gala performance at the Grand Angle, the inter-municipal performance hall of the Pays voironnais
• Dance and music workshops open to all to learn about the traditions of the invited countries
• Meetings and exchanges between the groups and the public, in a spirit of conviviality and sharing
• Festive Closing Ceremony

A local festival of sharing

The objective of the Festival of World Cultures is to offer a wide audience moments of exchange and conviviality in a festive spirit, through quality performances and exhibitions. By taking over the streets of Voiron and the squares of the surrounding towns, the festival creates a unique atmosphere where world traditions mingle with the daily lives of the inhabitants, fostering intercultural encounters and the discovery of others.

The Lucie Baud Center for World Cultures

ATP Salmorenc also manages the Lucie Baud Center for World Cultures in Voiron, a space dedicated to promoting world cultures throughout the year. This center offers cultural activities, dance and music classes, and hosts events related to popular traditions from around the world.