Les Halliennales
Festival of the Imaginary in Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin
About Les Halliennales
Les Halliennales: A Dive into Imaginary Literature
Since 2013, the Les Halliennales festival has brought together fans of imaginary literature every autumn in Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin. Over one intense day, more than 80 authors and illustrators from all over France and Europe gather to share their passion for fantasy, science fiction, and the strange.
A Festival at the Heart of the Imaginary
Les Halliennales stands out for the richness of its programming, entirely dedicated to the genres of the imaginary:
- Signing sessions: Meet authors and illustrators, a privileged moment for exchange between creators and readers.
- Round tables and conferences: Thematic discussions on genre literature trends, the creative process, and fantastic illustration.
- Activities and workshops: Creative activities centered around writing, drawing, and imaginary universes.
- Screenings: Films, short films, and documentaries related to the imaginary genres.
- Literary Prize: A prize awarded during the festival, recognizing a remarkable work of the year.
A Prestigious Patron or Godmother
Each edition is placed under the patronage of a renowned author. For 2026, Floriane Soulas, a rising figure in French-language fantasy, will be the festival's godmother. This patronage sets the tone for the edition and allows the public to deeply explore the universe of the invited artist.
An Event Rooted in the Region
Located just 10 kilometers from Lille, the Les Halliennales festival benefits from the cultural dynamism of the Lille metropolis while cultivating its own identity. The municipality of Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin mobilizes each year to host this event, which resonates far beyond the Nord department, attracting visitors from all over France.
In partnership with lille3000
Les Halliennales regularly collaborates with lille3000, the cultural association that emerged from Lille 2004 European Capital of Culture, for enriched thematic editions.
Les Halliennales — edition 2026
The 2026 edition of Les Halliennales will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at the Complexe Pierre de Coubertin in Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin, under the theme of "Fiesta". Fantasy author Floriane Soulas will be its patron. Nearly fifty authors and illustrators of speculative fiction, from the North of France, national, and European, are expected for a day of book signings, entertainment, and meetings. Admission is free.
A day under the theme of "Fiesta"
The Les Halliennales festival returns on Saturday, October 3, 2026, to the Complexe Pierre de Coubertin in Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin, near Lille. The 2026 edition's theme is "Fiesta" and is sponsored by fantasy author Floriane Soulas, this year's patron.
Nearly fifty guests, writers and illustrators from the North of France, national, and European, specializing in fantasy, science fiction, and the strange, will meet the public. The program includes: book signing sessions, entertainment, conferences, and screenings in the adjacent performance hall, as well as the Prix des Halliennales, a short story competition, and meetings with local schoolchildren.
As in previous years, the 2026 edition benefits from a partnership with lille3000. Admission is free, from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Highlights Les Halliennales 2026
- Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 10 AM to 6 PM
- Theme: "Fiesta"
- Patron: Floriane Soulas (fantasy author)
- Nearly 50 speculative fiction authors and illustrators
- Book signings, conferences, entertainment, screenings
- Prix des Halliennales and short story competition
- Free admission · lille3000 partnership
Prices Les Halliennales 2026
Practical information — Les Halliennales
Practical Information
Access and Transport
By car: Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin is located 10 km from Lille, accessible via the D941. Free parking near the Complexe Pierre de Coubertin.
By public transport: Bus from Lille (Ilevia line). Stop near the sports complex.
Venue
Complexe Pierre de Coubertin, Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin (59320). The festival takes place in the gymnasium and the adjacent conference room.
Opening Hours
From 10 am to 6 pm (one day).
Prices
Low-cost entry. Consult the official website for the prices of each edition.
Practical Tips
- Come with a list of your favorite authors for signings.
- Conferences and round tables are accessible without additional registration.
- A pop-up bookstore is set up on-site to purchase the works of the present authors.
- The festival is suitable for all audiences, including families with children.
Accessibility
The Complexe Pierre de Coubertin is accessible to people with reduced mobility. The exhibition spaces and the conference room are on the ground floor. Adapted restrooms are available.
Accommodation
As Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin is located 10 km from Lille, the hotel offerings of the Lille metropolis are easily accessible. Bed and breakfasts are also available in the surrounding towns. The bus network allows you to reach the festival from the center of Lille.
Food and Drink
Food stalls are present on the festival site, offering hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and pastries. Restaurants and bakeries are also available in the center of Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin, a few minutes' walk from the sports complex.
With Children
The festival is family-friendly. Specific activities are offered for young readers: writing workshops, games around the imaginary, and meetings with authors of children's fantasy literature. Accompanied children benefit from a reduced rate.
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Where does it take place — Les Halliennales
Complexe Pierre de Coubertin
Complexe Pierre de Coubertin, rue Georges Pompidou, 59320 Hallennes-lez-Haubourdin