Les Garennes

Les Garennes: Twenty Years of Music in the Heart of Sarthe

Since 2006, the Les Garennes festival has transformed the peaceful village of Souligné-sous-Ballon into a vibrant and warm musical stage every first Saturday in July. What began as a local initiative by a handful of enthusiasts has become one of the most popular summer events in northern Sarthe, attracting a loyal and curious audience each year.

An Eclectic and Demanding Program

The strength of Les Garennes lies in its resolutely eclectic programming. From one edition to the next, the festival navigates between jazz, world music, reggae, brass bands, and unique sound creations. In 2025, the anniversary edition notably featured Rennes Nola Experience, a brass band from Rennes with New Orleans sounds, blending fiery brass and irresistible groove, alongside artists from various musical backgrounds—Balkan music, hip-hop, reggae.

A Free and Family-Friendly Festival

Admission to the festival is completely free, a militant choice by the organizing association that wants to make culture accessible to everyone. Families find a space for activities and games for children, while food lovers enjoy on-site catering that highlights local Sarthe products.

Souligné-sous-Ballon: A Green Setting

Souligné-sous-Ballon, a rural commune nestled in the Maine hills, offers an ideal natural setting for an open-air festival. The green meadows and shaded paths create a bucolic atmosphere conducive to relaxation and musical discovery. A few kilometers north of Le Mans, the village is easily accessible while preserving its rural authenticity.

Twenty Years of Friendliness

In 2025, Les Garennes celebrated its 20th anniversary, two decades of volunteer passion, musical discoveries, and shared moments. This longevity testifies to the public's attachment and the associative vitality of the area. The festival embodies a certain idea of celebration: simple, generous, open to all, rooted in its territory, and turned towards the world.