Laroquebrou International Boogie-Woogie Festival

The world's largest boogie-woogie festival

Nestled in the heart of Cantal, the small medieval village of Laroquebrou transforms every summer into the true world capital of boogie-woogie. Since its creation in 1999, the Laroquebrou International Boogie-Woogie Festival has continuously grown to become today the essential reference event for all lovers of this musical style born in the 1920s in the United States.

A Story of Passion

It all began in 1998 with a simple concert that met with unexpected success. Fueled by this enthusiasm, the first official edition of the festival was born in 1999 under the name "1st Boogie Woogie Festival in La Roquebrou". Since then, the event has spanned over two decades, even surviving the break caused by Covid, to celebrate its 25th edition in 2025. The association Boogie Woogie La Roquebrou Cantal Auvergne, a non-profit organization (law 1901), has managed the festival since 2007 with the unwavering support of 60 passionate volunteers.

Five Days of Non-Stop Celebration

The festival unfolds over five days in August and offers a rich and eclectic program. The evening concerts, held in the gymnasium transformed into a performance venue, host the biggest names in international boogie-woogie. With over 500 m² of wooden flooring installed for the occasion, the audience can dance to the rhythm of electrifying pianos and high-energy bands.

The program mixes virtuoso pianists from Europe, the United States, and around the world, big bands, blues and swing ensembles, as well as gospel concerts. Among the regularly invited artists are legends of the genre such as Martin Schmitt, Lluis Coloma, Frank Muschalle, Julien Brunetaud, and Sébastien Troendlé, the festival's artistic director.

Beyond the Concerts

The festival is not limited to just evening concerts. Throughout the week, the village buzzes with boogie-woogie with piano masterclasses, free entertainment in the Trémolière garden and the town hall atrium, exhibitions, shows for young audiences, and dances. Sunday traditionally concludes the celebration with a gospel concert and a grand closing ball.

A Unique and Family Atmosphere

What makes Laroquebrou magical is the incomparable atmosphere that reigns in this village of character during the festival. All generations mingle, from long-time enthusiasts to curious newcomers. The festival has become the second largest cultural event in the Cantal department, attracting over 10,000 festival-goers each year, far more than the inhabitants of this charming medieval town perched above the Cère river.

The friendly spirit, exceptional artistic quality, and preserved natural setting of Auvergne make this festival an unmissable event for all lovers of live music, dance, and sharing.