About Ar'Vran Fest
Ar'Vran Fest – When Brittany dances to medieval rock
Janzé in Brittany, on 4 and 5 July 2026, is hosting a hybrid event that blends two worlds: Ar'Vran Fest is a medieval rock festival. From 12 noon to 11 pm, the Le Gentieg site is transformed into a meeting place for rock, Breton folklore and historical re-enactment. The medieval market is free; concerts require a separate ticket.
The concept of medieval rock may seem strange to the uninitiated, but it has gained popularity in Europe since the 1990s. The idea is to use modern instruments (electric guitars, drums) whilst incorporating medieval instruments (bagpipes, rebec, lute) and historical themes. Singers and musicians dressed in feudal or Celtic costumes perform original compositions with historical or mythological lyrics.
Ar'Vran Fest welcomes Breton and European rock bands that share this approach. The bands’ names often reflect their Celtic heritage: isn’t there a certain magic in music when it blends Breton drums and electric guitars? The audience, made up of rock fans, medieval culture enthusiasts and the simply curious, creates an electrifying atmosphere.
The day begins gently with the open market. Artisans offer medieval artefacts, clothing, combat accessories, potions and elixirs (no doubt fictional, but beautifully presented). Visitors stroll, shop and chat. There is no pressure to spend – the market is an opportunity to soak up the atmosphere.
Come the afternoon and evening, the concerts begin. Fans take their places, and the bands play. The energy rises. Stage lights illuminate costumes and instruments. The audience sings, dances and applauds. It’s festive, communal and noisy – a celebration of rock culture in a medieval setting.
Janzé is a small town, but easily accessible by car or public transport from Rennes. The Le Gentieg site has car parks and basic facilities. For the full experience, consider staying at a campsite or hotel nearby to enjoy the two days without the hassle of travelling.
July in Brittany is warm, dry and pleasant. It’s the tourist season, so the roads can be busy, but that also means everything is open and bustling. A weekend at Ar’Vran Fest can include beaches, coastal towns, or the forests of the Breton countryside.
