Le BōM Festival

Le BōM Festival: A Citizen Celebration at the Foot of Sainte-Baume

Nestled in Plan-d'Aups-Sainte-Baume, a small village in the Var perched at 670 meters altitude facing the Sainte-Baume forest massif, Le BōM Festival is one of the most unique cultural events in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Born from the initiative of the Collectif Citoyen de Plan-d'Aups, an association of passionate volunteers, it brings together hundreds of festival-goers each early July around strong values: total freeness, citizen participation, ecological responsibility.

100% Volunteer and Citizen Organization

Le BōM Festival is a unique model of citizen cultural organization. Around 30 volunteers work year-round to prepare the event, voluntarily covering nearly 50% of the operational costs. The festival's funding relies on three pillars:

• Institutional and private partners (approximately 25% of the budget)
• Voluntary donations from festival-goers at the bar and food trucks (approximately 25%)
• The volunteer work of the organizing team (equivalent to 50% of the budget)

This solidarity-based economic model allows for completely free entry, including on-site camping, while ensuring a quality artistic program. The organization emphasizes: "The festival thrives thanks to you."

Sainte-Baume: An Exceptional Natural Setting

Plan-d'Aups-Sainte-Baume is located at the foot of the Sainte-Baume massif, one of Provence's most remarkable forest massifs. The Sainte-Baume forest, classified as an integral biological reserve, is home to a thousand-year-old beech forest, century-old lime trees, and exceptional biodiversity. The massif culminates at the Pic de Bertagne (1,041 m) and is crossed by trails imbued with spirituality.

In this preserved and majestic setting, Le BōM Festival takes place at the Halle de la Maison de Pays, in the heart of the village, offering a natural stage at the foot of the wooded hills. The coolness of the altitude (nights are cool even in July), the pure forest air, and the view of the massif create an extraordinary festive atmosphere.

An Eclectic and Quality Program

The BōM Festival's program encompasses a wide diversity of musical styles, all united by artistic excellence and a taste for contemporary creation. World music, Mediterranean folk, organic electro, jazz, street arts, and live performances mingle in a program that surprises and delights.

The 2025 Edition, July 4th and 5th

The 2025 edition offered two days of exceptionally rich concerts and shows:

Friday, July 4th:

• Sam Karpienia — internationally renowned Provençal singer, a figure of traditional Mediterranean music
• Vinzoo — original creation with electro-folk sounds
• Medusa — band with powerful Mediterranean influences
• Didier la Rafale — electro DJ set
• F.U.R Cròia Musica
• Monsieur Pioup — closing act

Saturday, July 5th:

• Tutte Quante
• Taal Tarang — Indian classical music
• Atomic Ping Pong
• High Fade
• Mamie Vortex — closing act

During the day, theater and street performances enriched the program: Mr François for young audiences, DoctoLibre, Au Faubourg des Mers, La Quête du Râle.

An Eco-Sensitive and Inclusive Festival

Le BōM Festival places ecology and inclusion at the heart of its project. Specifically:

• Reusable cups and tableware to reduce waste
• Dry toilets to conserve water resources
• Encouragement of carpooling and soft mobility
• Free camping on-site to limit evening travel
• Secure space for children and inclusion protocols
• Safety officer (the "Angel") to report problematic behavior

Stands from engaged partners — environmental associations, social organizations — allow the public to get informed and involved.

Workshops and Participatory Activities

Le BōM Festival is more than just a concert festival. Workshops are offered during the day:

• Water locks, DIY filters, sensory paths, painting (morning)
• Pottery, visual arts, face painting, board games, yoga (afternoon)

Dedicated children's areas with adapted activities allow families to fully enjoy the festival. The intergenerational atmosphere is one of Le BōM's hallmarks.