Les Théâtrales du Velay
Open-air theatre festival at Arlempdes Castle
About Théâtrales du Velay
Created in 1995, the Les Théâtrales du Velay festival is a unique summer theatre event in Haute-Loire. Every year, during the last fortnight of July, the esplanade of Arlempdes Castle is transformed into an open-air stage to host theatre, street theatre, storytelling, and contemporary creation performances. Perched on a volcanic peak overlooking the Loire, the village of Arlempdes, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, offers a spectacular setting for the performances. 30 km south of Le Puy-en-Velay, this medieval fortress from the 12th-15th centuries, the first true Loire castle from its source, becomes a place for artistic encounters during the festival, blending theatre, readings, exhibitions, and exchanges with artists in a friendly and warm atmosphere. For over thirty years, Les Théâtrales du Velay has brought live performance to life in an exceptional natural and heritage setting, attracting a family and passionate audience from all over Auvergne and beyond.
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Les Théâtrales du Velay: Theatre at the foot of a Loire Castle
Since 1995, the village of Arlempdes, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, has hosted a unique theatre festival each summer: Les Théâtrales du Velay. For a fortnight at the end of July, the medieval walls of the castle transform into an open-air theatre, offering spectators a cultural experience in a breathtaking natural setting.
An Exceptional Site Between Volcanoes and the Loire
Arlempdes is perched atop a volcanic peak embraced by a majestic meander of the Loire. The castle ruins, built between the 12th and 15th centuries, dominate the village and the valley from their basaltic promontory. This castle is considered the first true Loire castle from its source. Performances take place on the castle esplanade, offering a striking panorama of the basalt columns, the village's slate roofs, and the gorges of the nascent Loire. This natural and historical setting gives the performances an incomparable atmosphere.
A Rich and Varied Theatre Program
The festival offers an eclectic program focused on theatre in all its forms: classical and contemporary theatre, street theatre, storytelling, readings, and original creations. Invited companies, both professional and sometimes amateur, present their shows within the castle walls or in the village alleys, creating a rare proximity between artists and spectators.
Beyond the theatrical performances, the festival offers a complete program including exhibitions, artist meet-and-greets, readings, and moments of conviviality that have earned the event its reputation. The warm and family-friendly atmosphere is one of the hallmarks of Les Théâtrales du Velay.
A Festival Rooted in Velay Heritage
Organized by the association Les Théâtrales du Velay, the festival is part of an initiative to promote heritage and live performance in rural areas. It contributes to the cultural influence of Haute-Loire and the tourist appeal of this remarkable territory in the upper Loire basin. Labeled a regional interest festival, the event has successfully built a loyal intergenerational audience appreciative of the artistic quality of the shows and the magic of the location.
Théâtrales du Velay — edition 2026
The 31st edition of Les Théâtrales du Velay will take place from July 16 to 30, 2026, on the esplanade of Arlempdes Castle. The open-air theatre festival returns for another fortnight of performances, artistic encounters, and conviviality in the majestic setting of this Most Beautiful Village of France perched above the Loire.
31st Edition - July 16 to 30, 2026
The festival Les Théâtrales du Velay returns for its 31st edition within the walls of Arlempdes Castle. From July 16 to 30, 2026, the village, classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, will once again host theatre companies, storytellers, and street artists for two weeks of open-air performances.
The detailed program will be announced in the spring of 2026. Find all information on the festival website and through the Le Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office.
Prices Théâtrales du Velay 2026
Practical information — Théâtrales du Velay
Practical Information
Access and Transport
By car: Arlempdes is located about 30 km south of Le Puy-en-Velay. From Le Puy-en-Velay, take the D535 towards Costaros and then follow the signs for Arlempdes. The journey takes about 35 minutes. Parking is available at the entrance of the village.
From Lyon or Saint-Étienne: Reach Le Puy-en-Velay via the A47 then the RN88 (approx. 1h45 from Lyon, 1h15 from Saint-Étienne), then follow signs for Arlempdes via the D535.
Performance Venue
Performances mainly take place on the esplanade of Arlempdes Castle, at the top of the village. Some street performances take place in the village alleys and squares. Wear comfortable shoes to access the site. It is recommended to bring a light jacket for evenings at altitude.
Schedules
Shows generally take place in the late afternoon and evening. The detailed program and precise times are announced before each edition on the festival website and through the Le Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office.
Ticketing
Full price: €20. Reduced price (students, job seekers, large families): €13. 3-show pass: €45. Free for children under 12. Reservations by phone at 06 25 04 16 85, by email at [email protected], at the Le Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office, or at the festival office in Arlempdes from the festival's opening.
Accommodation
Arlempdes and its surroundings offer accommodation options in gîtes, bed and breakfasts, and campsites. Le Puy-en-Velay, 30 km away, has a wider range of hotels. It is recommended to book in advance during the festival period.
Food and Drink
Food and drink options are available in the village of Arlempdes and in neighboring towns. A refreshment stand is usually set up at the festival site.
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Théâtrales du Velay at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Théâtrales du Velay
Château d'Arlempdes - Esplanade du Château
Esplanade du Château, 43490 Arlempdes