La Pamparina
The free world music festival in the medieval city of Thiers, the great festival in Auvergne
About La Pamparina
La Pamparina: Thiers' Great Musical Festival
La Pamparina was born in July 1998 in the streets of Thiers, in the heart of Puy-de-Dôme. Its name, meaning "big party" in Auvergnat, perfectly captures the spirit of this unique festival: three days of world music, completely free, in one of Auvergne's most beautiful medieval historic centers.
A Street Festival in a Medieval City
La Pamparina takes place in the historic center of Thiers, a city known as the world capital of cutlery. Stages are set up on the main and secondary squares of the medieval city, and musical parades are organized in the old cobblestone streets. This exceptional setting gives the festival a unique and intimate atmosphere.
An Eclectic and International Program
Each edition offers about forty concerts over three days, mixing:
- World Music: artists from Cuba, Chile, Brazil, Benin, and beyond
- Pop and Soul: contemporary voices and catchy grooves
- Elegant Hip-Hop: rap and urban cultures
- French Song: quirky singer-songwriters and performers
- Retro Electro: vintage sounds and modern beats
- Rockabilly and Rock: energy and guitars
- Reggae: tropical vibes and relaxation
- Celtic Music: traditions from across the Channel
A Popular and Free Event
Access to La Pamparina is 100% free, making it one of the most accessible festivals in the region. Every year, between 30,000 and 45,000 festival-goers fill the alleys of Thiers for three days of celebration and musical discovery, making La Pamparina a must-attend event in Auvergne.
A Launchpad for Young Talents
Beyond the headliners, La Pamparina has always been committed to spotlighting young talents and emerging artists. The festival is known for its ability to discover artists before they become famous, thus contributing to the vitality of the independent music scene.
La Pamparina — edition 2026
The 27th edition of La Pamparina will take place on Friday, July 3rd, Saturday, July 4th, and Sunday, July 5th, 2026 in the historic center of Thiers (Puy-de-Dôme). For three days, from 5 PM to 11 PM, the free world music festival will offer about forty concerts spread across several stages in the medieval city (Place Antonin-Chastel, Saint-Genès stage, Rue Conchette, Place Mercière, media library). The detailed program will be announced soon by the City of Thiers.
La Pamparina 2026 — 27th edition
From Friday, July 3rd to Sunday, July 5th, 2026, the historic center of Thiers will host the 27th edition of La Pamparina, the free world music festival organized by the City of Thiers. Every evening, from 5 PM to 11 PM, the squares and cobbled streets of the medieval city will come alive to the rhythm of about forty concerts mixing world music, brass bands, pop, soul, hip-hop, French chanson, electro, reggae, rock, and Celtic music.
Stages scattered throughout the medieval city
As every year, the festival takes over several emblematic locations in the historic center: Place Antonin-Chastel, Saint-Genès stage, Rue Conchette, Place Mercière, as well as the media library. Musical strolls connect the different stages and create a continuous festive atmosphere.
Upcoming program
The artistic program for the 2026 edition will be gradually unveiled on the official website of the City of Thiers and on the festival's Facebook page. It will follow the eclectic and international spirit that has been the hallmark of La Pamparina since 1998: renowned headliners, young talents to discover, groups from all over the world.
An entirely free festival
As with every edition, access to all concerts and activities is completely free. Food stalls and refreshment stands are spread throughout the historic center during the three days of the festival.
Highlights La Pamparina 2026
- 27th edition of an emblematic Auvergne festival, created in 1998
- Three days, from July 3rd to 5th, 2026, from 5 PM to 11 PM
- About forty free concerts in a medieval setting
- Eclectic program: world music, brass bands, pop, soul, hip-hop, electro, reggae, rock, French chanson
- Several stages: Place Antonin-Chastel, Saint-Genès, Rue Conchette, Place Mercière, media library
Prices La Pamparina 2026
Practical information — La Pamparina
Festival Access
By Car
Thiers is located 40 km east of Clermont-Ferrand, accessible via the A89 (Thiers exit). Free parking on the outskirts of the old town with shuttle buses to the historic center.
By Train
Thiers station is served by TER trains from Clermont-Ferrand (30-40 min). The historic center is within walking distance of the station.
Prices
Festival is entirely free. Free access to all concerts and events.
Food & Drink
Food stalls and bars are located throughout the historic center during the festival.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available in Thiers and the surrounding area (hotels, guesthouses, campsites). Booking well in advance is recommended.
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Where does it take place — La Pamparina
Centre historique de Thiers
Centre historique, 63300 Thiers