Les Poules à Crêtes

A punk festival in a rural setting

Born in 2005 from the will of the MJC of Fourneaux and the youth club of Neaux to promote concerts in rural areas, the festival Les Poules à Crêtes quickly became rooted in the musical landscape of the Loire region. The village's emblem being the hen, the organizers mischievously chose this name: 'à crêtes' (with crests) for their love of punk. What was initially just a small local party has become an anticipated event for alternative music lovers, attracting around 2,200 spectators over a weekend.

Two stages and street arts

The festival takes over the Salle de l'An Neuf and its surroundings in Fourneaux, near Saint-Symphorien-de-Lay. Two stages host bands on Friday and Saturday evenings, in a resolutely festive atmosphere mixing punk, alternative rock, ska, and ska-punk. On Saturday afternoon, the Place de la Mairie transforms into a space dedicated to street arts: shows for children and adults, street theater companies, brass bands, and exhibitions, all with free access.

An engaged and eclectic program

True to its punk roots, the festival has hosted iconic bands from the French and international scene over the years: Tagada Jones, Les Ramoneurs de Menhirs, Parabellum, Le Bal des Enragés, Les Sales Majestés, Elmer Food Beat, The Locos, Goulamas'k, Los Tres Puntos, Opium du Peuple, 3 Fromages, Banane Metalik, L'Animalerie, and Les Naufragés. The diversity of styles – from pure punk to festive ska and alternative rock – reflects the open and friendly spirit of the event.

A volunteer and solidarity spirit

Entirely driven by volunteers from the villages of the Pays Entre Loire et Rhône community of communes, the festival relies on self-financing through ticket sales, bar revenue, and events organized throughout the year. This independence allows organizers to maintain a demanding and accessible program at moderate prices. Free camping on-site, local food, and the family-friendly atmosphere on Saturday afternoon make it a human-sized event, rooted in its territory.