Herbe Bleue Festival

Herbe Bleue Festival: Bluegrass in the heart of Anjou

Since 2019, the Herbe Bleue Festival has been resonating with the sounds of the banjo, fiddle, and mandolin in the green landscapes of Baugeois. Born from the desire of a few passionate musicians and the privileged location of the area, this festival has become in a few editions the essential meeting place for bluegrass, old-time, and Cajun music in France.

Concerts in unusual locations

Herbe Bleue's originality lies in its connection to the territory and its choice of venues. Concerts take place outdoors, in farms, barns, fields, forests, and village squares scattered throughout the Baugé area. This itinerant approach creates a unique proximity between artists and the public, in natural and heritage settings that showcase the beauty of Maine-et-Loire. The main site, the Cour du Liège in Clefs, hosts the evening concerts and the festival campsite.

An excellent international program

Each edition brings together internationally renowned artists and emerging groups from the United States, Canada, Europe, and France. Bluegrass, old-time, and Cajun music are at the heart of the programming, with concerts that highlight instrumental virtuosity, collective energy, and dancing. The traditional dances, led by passionate musicians, are a highlight of each edition, inviting the public to dance until the early hours.

Workshops, jams, and springboard

Beyond the concerts, Herbe Bleue offers a rich program of instrumental practice workshops (banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, double bass), spontaneous and organized jams, a springboard and open-mic stage for emerging talents, as well as screenings and artist meet-and-greets. A free access area is dedicated to workshops and exchanges between musicians of all levels.

A family-friendly festival rooted in its region

Herbe Bleue is designed for all audiences. The campsite at the Cour du Liège, the artisan village, the on-site restaurants, and the refreshment area create a festive village atmosphere where friends and family can gather. The festival promotes local producers and artisans from the region, offering food and drink rooted in the Anjou terroir. The Sunday morning Gospel Hour has become a popular ritual to close the festival on a high note.

A recognized and growing event

With its 7th edition in 2025, the Herbe Bleue Festival has built a loyal following of passionate and curious attendees from all over France and Europe. Its media coverage, particularly on France 3 Pays de la Loire, attests to its growing influence. Herbe Bleue is now one of the most important American traditional music festivals in France, and an ambassador for the cultural dynamism of the Baugeois region.