Les Arts dans la Rue Festival

Les Arts dans la Rue: Culture Celebrated in Contres

The Les Arts dans la Rue Festival is a free cultural event that takes place every year at the end of August in Contres, in the Loir-et-Cher region. Created in 2009 by three friends — Thierry Baumer, Jean-François Maubert, and Pascal Jahan — who share a strong taste for culture in all its forms, this festival has established itself as a highlight of the cultural life of Controis-en-Sologne.

A Friendly and Popular Street Festival

The heart of the festival beats in Place Javelet, in the center of Contres, which transforms for a weekend into a true open-air stage. Street performances are the DNA of the event: traveling theater companies, circus artists, stilt walkers, jugglers, and musicians take over the streets and squares to offer surprising and accessible performances for everyone. The festival emphasizes the proximity between artists and the public, in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Music, Magic, and Artistic Creations

Beyond street arts, the festival offers a varied musical program with concerts of blues, acoustic rock, and brass bands. Magic shows add a touch of wonder to the program. Artist exhibitions showcase the work of local and regional creators, while the Saturday evening night market offers artisanal and gastronomic products in a festive atmosphere.

15 Years of Culture and Sharing

Since its creation, the Les Arts dans la Rue Festival has continued to grow. From its humble beginnings in 2009, it has become an anticipated event that brings together residents of Contres and visitors from all over the Loir-et-Cher region. The 15th edition in 2025 marks an important milestone in the festival's history, with an enriched three-day program and six must-see performances. The complete freeness of the event remains a founding principle, ensuring access to culture for all.

Strong Local Roots

The festival is supported by the Communauté de communes Val de Cher Controis and by numerous local volunteers and partners. It contributes to the cultural animation of the territory and the commercial dynamic of Contres' town center, attracting a family and intergenerational audience.