For the first time in what feels like forever, it looks like the weather is going to be pleasant for the foreseeable future, which can mean only one thing – festival season has begun!
LOA taking over Esch the other weekend marked a momentous occasion in the Luxembourg events calendar, it saw the return of people enjoying themselves outdoors. Luxembourg may be small and people are quick to think there isn't much to do here, but that is simply not the case. In summer, the place is brimming with life, music and food. AND boy, does Luxembourg love a good fest with beers and a Mettwurscht! Here is a list of 10 unmissable music festivals in the Grand Duchy this summer (in chronological order):
Pic-nic Electronic - Parc Municipal Kirchberg - 18 & 19 May
A festival full of colour, amazing food and electronic beats returns to Kirchberg’s municipal park. One of Luxembourg's leading electronic music collectives, Lauter Unfug have curated a lineup with international as well as local talent, with DJs performing that have been embraced by the biggest stages in the biggest cities the world over. If you're a fan of dance music and all round good vibes then get yourself down there this weekend — they even have a hippie village!
© Lauter Unfug
Flamenco Festival Esch - Kulturfabrik - 24 May until 1 June
Organised by the Kulturfabrik and Círculo Cultural Español Antonio Machado in collaboration with the Escher Theater and the Cinématèque de Luxembourg it is an all round celebration of Spanish culture. A rich variety of shows involving music and dance as well as a range of related workshops will be showcased in Esch. With the growing number of Spanish residents in Luxembourg, it's sure to be one hell of a Fiesta!
Usina24 - Neischmelz, Dudelange - 1 & 2 June
As in previous editions, USINA24 will feature a variety of cultural activities, theatrical performances, installations, and a broad musical lineup. Headline act CRO is a major hit among the Luxembourgish public and is set to deliver an incredible show! This two-day festival has a paid admission on the first day, while the second day is free. Admission for kids under the age of 12 is free but strictly by reservation only via info@atelier.lu.
Francofolies - Parc du Gallebierg - 7, 8 & 9 June
One of the largest music festivals that Luxembourg hosts is Francofolies. As the name suggests, it focuses on French music and features international stars like Ninho, Shaka Ponk, and David Guetta as headline acts. Thousands of visitors will attend, gathering from far and wide. It is set to be one of the biggest festivals in the Grand Duchy in recent years.
© RTL Today
Fête de la Musique - Dudelange - June 15
Now - Fête de la Musique is an event that goes on up and down the country but the pinnacle of the nationwide festival is the one in Dudelange. The city turns into one big party and there are stages all over the place. Bounce around the city and discover all different types of music from local and international bands. One to put on the calendar as it is free entry and a great day out for all ages.
Siren's Call - Neimënster Abbey - 29 June
At one of the most picturesque venues in Luxembourg, the Neumünster Abbey, music and culture combine to bring you a great event for all the family. British indie band Bombay Bicycle Club are headlining accompanied by plenty of other international and local talent. Once again, children under the age of 12 have free entry and it would be a great place for them to enjoy their first festival.
Screaming Fields - Rockhal - 20 July
A special festival that has been going on since 2010 is Screaming Fields, which showcases all of Luxembourg’s rising stars with an emphasis on young bands and musicians. Known Luxembourgish artists like Maz, CHAiLD, and Francis of Delirium have all performed on the Rocklab stage in previous years. Who knows, the next David Bowie might be there this year!
Beyond Music Festival - Vianden Castle - 13 July
After the success of the first edition at Vianden Castle over the winter, the electronic music collective Beyond is back at this magical location. Three stages the castle will allow you to dance to some of the best local and international DJs, all with a medieval feel. It promises to be a magical event!
Blues 'n' Jazz Rallye - Pfaffenthal, Clausen and Grund - 20 July
One of the best events of the year in my opinion is the Blues 'n' Jazz rallye, where the whole of Luxembourg's old town is transformed into a hub of festivity. An array of stages in several locations, in pubs or outdoors, as well as thousands of people swarming the streets and enjoying some good old Jazz and blues music in very good spirits, can it get any better?!
© Visit Luxembourg
E-lake festival - Echternach - 9, 10 & 11 August
A festival that encompasses nearly all genres, where Rock, Pop, Indie, R&B and Hip-hop combine as well as House, Trance and Techno taking over Echternach lake. Enjoy this 3 day festival in nature, which has a real music festival feel to it!
There you go, a quick guide to Luxembourg's best festivals, be sure to keep an eye out on different events that take place over the course of the summer and let us know your favorite in the comments!
