Rochechouart International Bandas Festival

The International Bandas Festival: a festive tradition in Rochechouart

Born in July 1989 on the initiative of the banda La Châtelaine, a musical group founded in 1986 and named in homage to the majestic Rochechouart castle, the International Bandas Festival quickly established itself as one of the unmissable events of festive life in Haute-Vienne. From its very first edition, organized in the magnificent castle grounds, the success was such that the adventure naturally continued year after year.

An exceptional setting in the heart of Limousin heritage

The festival takes place at the foot of the Rochechouart castle, a historic monument built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the confluence of the Graine and the Vayres. This remarkable site, which today houses the Departmental Museum of Contemporary Art, offers a grandiose setting for the festivities. The shaded alleys and esplanades of the castle become stages where the bandas compete in energy and virtuosity, creating a unique atmosphere between medieval heritage and popular music.

Bands from all over France

For two days, on the first weekend of July, about ten bands take over the streets and squares of Rochechouart. The bandas, these festive brass bands composed of brass, percussion, and woodwinds, perform an eclectic repertoire mixing paso-dobles, popular tunes, world music, and contemporary arrangements. The festival also welcomes bands with various styles: New Orleans brass bands, brass bands, big bands, and percussion ensembles, offering a complete panorama of festive street music.

Parades, concerts, and conviviality

The program alternates between parades through the streets of the medieval town, concerts on the various stages set up around the castle, and moments of conviviality shared with the public. Spectators can wander freely from one stage to another, carried away by the infectious rhythms of the bands. On-site catering and bars complete this popular festival atmosphere, true to the spirit of the bandas. La Châtelaine, the founding banda of the event and Golden Palm winner at the Condom Festival in 2002, remains at the heart of the organization and entertainment of this musical event that has become a summer tradition in Rochechouart.