Fête de la Musique in Sens

The Fête de la Musique in Sens: the shortest night awakens the capital of Sénonais

Sens, prefecture of the Yonne, is a city of art and history with exceptional architectural heritage. Its Saint-Étienne Cathedral, the first Gothic cathedral in France built in the 12th century, dominates with its slender silhouette the heart of a city rich in medieval alleys, private mansions, gardens, and public spaces. This remarkable heritage setting offers the Fête de la Musique a choice backdrop.

Every June 21st, the city of Sens comes alive with music to celebrate the summer solstice. Dozens of musical groups take over the streets of the historic center, public squares, parvis, and terraces of participating establishments. Traffic is interrupted on certain streets — notably Rue de la République — to make way for musicians and strollers.

A program open to all musical styles

The Fête de la Musique in Sens reflects the musical diversity of the Sénonais region. It hosts:

• Classical and choral music: instrumental ensembles, polyphonic choirs, recitals in the city's heritage spaces.
• Jazz, blues, and soul: jazz groups from Auxerre and Sens, combos, big bands on the squares and in the gardens.
• Rock, pop, and contemporary music: amateur and semi-professional bands from the region, covers, and original creations in participating bars.
• World music and traditions: groups representing the cultures of the communities present in Sens.
• Electronic music and fusions: emerging artists from the department exploring new musical forms.

The Conservatoire du Grand Sénonais plays a central role in the Fête de la Musique in Sens, mobilizing its students from all disciplines for performances outdoors or in the city's heritage sites.

Sens, a city of culture and musical traditions

Sens has had a strong connection to music for centuries. The cathedral choir, one of the oldest musical institutions in France, has trained generations of musicians and singers. Today, the city has numerous musical associations, an active conservatory, and several concert halls. The Fête de la Musique is the time when this musical life spills into the streets to reach the widest audience.

The night of June 21st in the streets of Sens

The evening of June 21st in Sens is a unique experience. Strolling through the old town — from the cathedral to Rue de la République, from the synodal palace to the Gardens of the Resistance — the walker moves from one musical universe to another, surprised at every street corner by a new ensemble. The atmosphere is that of a relaxed, intergenerational popular festival, where music brings together all age groups and origins in a shared celebration of living together.