International Festival of Dances and World Music

ℹ️ Festival discontinued. The International World Music and Dance Festival of Issoire is no longer active: its last known edition was held in July 2024. This page is maintained for archival purposes. Any previously mentioned future dates or editions were not confirmed.

A hub for international folklore in Issoire (1987-2024)

From 1987 to 2024, the International World Music and Dance Festival of Issoire—originally known as the "Issoire International Folklore Festival" (FIFI) and later as FIDEMM—served as a premier gathering for traditional arts and international folklore in the Puy-de-Dôme region. Launched by Fernand Neves and the Folklore Issoirien group, this free festival aimed to showcase the richness and diversity of global music and dance.

A festival recognized by CIOFF and UNESCO

FIDEMM was a member of the CIOFF France network (International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts), an official partner of UNESCO. This international recognition highlighted the festival's artistic quality and its commitment to preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage worldwide.

A week of performances and cultural exchange

Every July, dance and music troupes from every continent would take over the town of Issoire to offer:

• City center parades: performers in traditional costumes would march through the streets of Issoire in vibrant, colorful processions.
• Open-air concerts and shows: held at the Place de la Montagne and other venues throughout the city.
• Dance workshops: hosted at the Square André Roux, led by the guest artists.
• Social gatherings: shared aperitifs, festive meals, and musical evenings.
• Market entertainment: groups would perform at markets in Issoire and neighboring towns like Brassac-les-Mines.

A popular and free festival

True to its mission of cultural accessibility, FIDEMM was entirely free. With over 35 editions held between 1987 and 2024, it was a major highlight of the Issoire summer season and a key contributor to the town's international profile.