Le Lavoir en Fête

Le Lavoir en Fête: A Festival in a Unique Venue

Born from the initiative of professional musician Guillaume Viollet, Le Lavoir en Fête is a festival that draws its originality from its location: the old washhouse of Orry-la-Ville. This heritage building in the Hauts-de-France region, almost buried in the ground with a small staircase to descend, offers a singular architecture very different from typical village washhouses. Its natural reverberation inspired Guillaume to organize the first concerts there, giving birth to this atypical festival.

A Bucolic and Eco-Responsible Festival

Le Lavoir en Fête defines itself as a bucolic open-air music festival, carrying strong values of eco-responsibility. The event favors short supply chains, limits its environmental impact, and promotes an approach that respects heritage and the surrounding nature. The green setting of Orry-la-Ville, between the forest of Chantilly and the ponds of Commelles, reinforces this rural dimension.

An Eclectic Program

The festival offers a varied musical program that spans genres:

• Rock and Pop: Bands and artists from the French and international alternative scene
• Jazz: Acoustic ensembles and swing groups taking advantage of the washhouse's exceptional acoustics
• Instrumental Music: Guitar, cello, and other solo instruments enhanced by the natural resonance of the place
• Emerging Artists: Discover new talents in an intimate setting

The Old Washhouse: A Living Heritage

The old washhouse of Orry-la-Ville is a testament to the rural heritage of the Oise. Built below ground level, it is accessed by a staircase descending to the water basin. This particular architecture creates remarkable natural acoustics, transforming this place of memory into an open-air concert hall of surprising sound quality.

A Festival Born from Lockdown

Le Lavoir en Fête was born in the particular context of the post-lockdown period, as an opportunity to reconnect with culture and live performance. What was intended as a one-off event has become a popular summer gathering, driven by public enthusiasm and the quality of the programming.

Between Chantilly and Senlis

Orry-la-Ville benefits from a privileged geographical location, between the historic towns of Chantilly and Senlis, near the forest of Chantilly and the ponds of Commelles. The festival is thus part of a territory rich in natural and cultural heritage, offering festival-goers the opportunity to combine music and tourist discovery.