Vialas à la Page Reading Festival

Living Literature in the Cévennes

The Vialas à la Page Reading Festival is a unique literary event that celebrates spoken word readings in the enchanting setting of the Cévennol village of Vialas. Every summer, during a weekend in July, the village transforms into an open stage where words come to life through the voices of invited readers, actors, and artists.

A Festival of Words and Encounters

Vialas à la Page invites the public to read, listen, write, dance, and experience literature differently. The festival offers a rich and varied program combining spectacular readings, literary performances, participatory writing workshops, and musical moments. Each edition revolves around an original theme that permeates the entire program.

Gourmet and Creative Themes

In 2024, the theme “Shall We Have a Taste?!” offered a literary journey organized around meals: literary aperitifs, gourmet readings, and wine quizzes. The performance “Sophie's Machines” featured an unusual writing workshop on repurposed typewriters, led by two performer-clowns.

A Program for All Ages

The festival runs from Friday evening to Sunday, with offerings for all audiences. Youth workshops like “Books to Devour” for ages 7-13 are alongside performances for adults blending theater, music, and literature. Evening readings are accompanied by convivial moments around local gastronomy.

François Petit Short Story Competition

The festival is also associated with the François Petit Short Story Competition, an open writing competition that allows amateur authors to submit their texts and participate in the literary life of the region.

An Exceptional Cévenol Setting

Vialas, a mountain village nestled between Mont Lozère and the Cévennes valleys, offers a remarkable natural setting for this open-air festival. Readings take place in the village alleys, squares, and gardens, creating an intimate and poetic atmosphere.