Foreztival

A Festival Born from the Youth of Forez

Foreztival was born in 2004 from an initiative by young people from Trelins and Marcoux, supported by the APIJ (Association Pour l'Intercommunalité des Jeunes) in Boën-sur-Lignon. Convinced that geographical remoteness should not be a barrier to accessing culture, these enthusiasts launched a contemporary music festival in the heart of the Forez plain. The first edition, in August 2005, brought together 3,500 people and laid the foundations for an event that has become a must-see in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

A Rich and Eclectic Program on Four Stages

Each year, Foreztival hosts over 40 artists on four stages: the Scène Monts (main stage for headliners), the Scène Plaine, the Scène Magma (electro, dub, and sound system), and a space dedicated to discoveries. The programming boldly mixes musical genres: hip-hop and rap (MC Solaar, Tiakola, PLK, Fonky Family), reggae and dub (Dub Inc, Danakil, Biga*Ranx, Israel Vibration), electro (Kompromat, Thylacine, Synapson), rock and metal (Ultra Vomit, Nova Twins, La Mano 1.9), French chanson (Pomme, Mickey 3D, Zoufris Maracas), and world music (Alpha Blondy, The Congos). The festival has grown while retaining its identity as a musical pioneer, alternating international headliners with promising discoveries.

A 100% Associative and Independent Project

Driven by the FZL association, Foreztival proudly claims its independence with over 95% self-financing. The permanent team of about fifteen employees is supported by over 90 volunteer coordinators and 800 volunteers mobilized during the event. The festival rejects the dominance of entertainment multinationals and defends a conscious and thoughtful cultural approach. This philosophy is reflected in all aspects of the festival: short-circuit catering favoring local producers, eco-responsible practices, accessibility for people with disabilities, and free entry for children under 12.

Strong Values: Independence, Kindness, Consciousness

Three founding values have guided Foreztival since its inception. Independence guarantees total artistic freedom and authentic territorial roots. Kindness translates into a commitment against all forms of discrimination and violence, making the festival an inclusive and fraternal space. Environmental and social consciousness means that success is measured not only by attendance but also by the well-being of festival-goers, volunteers, partners, and local residents. Foreztival is the small festival that dreamed of becoming big, and it has succeeded without ever betraying its roots.