France’s music festival, Le Printemps de Bourges, is gearing up for a landmark celebration as it marks its 50th anniversary from April 14 to 19, 2026. Known for championing musical diversity, discovery, and innovation, the festival has unveiled its first wave of artists, setting the stage for an unforgettable jubilee edition.
A Star-Studded Lineup for a Historic Milestone
The festival’s golden jubilee will feature a mix of legendary performers and emerging talents, ensuring something for every music lover. Among the headliners are French pop icon Vanessa Paradis, who returns to Bourges after more than three decades to showcase tracks from her highly anticipated new album, Le Retour des Beaux Jours. Joining her on the bill are rapper Gims, rock poets Feu! Chatterton, and Canadian sensation Charlotte Cardin, whose soulful voice has captivated audiences worldwide.
Other standout acts include electronic duo Ofenbach, rap sensations Josman and Zola, and global megastar Magic System, known for their infectious Afrobeat rhythms. The festival will also welcome Helena, a breakout star from Star Academy, alongside indie favorites like Superbus and Suzane, ensuring a vibrant blend of genres and generations.
Six Days of Musical Magic
Spread across six days, the festival will transform Bourges into a sprawling open-air celebration of music, with performances hosted at Le W, the festival’s main venue, and other locations throughout the city. Each day offers a unique theme and energy:
Wednesday, April 15: Vanessa Paradis, Feu! Chatterton, Charlie Winston, Oxmo Puccino
Thursday, April 16: Charlotte Cardin, Ofenbach, Helena, Superbus, Suzane
Friday, April 17: Vladimir Cauchemar, Mosimann, Magic System, Deluxe, Biga*Ranx, Luiza
Saturday, April 18: Josman, Zola, La Mano 1.9, L2B, Maureen, Danyl
Sunday, April 19: Gims, Linh
From rap to rock, pop to electronic beats, the lineup reflects the festival’s commitment to showcasing the breadth of contemporary music.
Celebrating 50 Years of Discovery
Since its inception in 1976, Le Printemps de Bourges has been a beacon for emerging talent and eclectic programming. For its 50th edition, the festival is pulling out all the stops, with a budget increase of 40% allocated to artist fees and production. According to festival director Boris Vedel, the goal is simple: “To have fun and make our audience happy.” This ethos is evident in the diverse lineup, which spans aesthetics and age groups, appealing to both longtime fans and new attendees.
Beyond the concerts, the festival will host live creations, exhibitions, and events dedicated to traditional and electronic music, offering a holistic celebration of sound and culture. An exhibition tracing the festival’s storied history will also be on display, inviting attendees to reflect on five decades of musical milestones.
Ticket Information
Tickets for individual days are priced between €50 and €60, with options available for purchase on the festival’s official website. Given the festival’s reputation for selling out quickly, early booking is highly recommended.
Full Lineup Announced So Far:
Wednesday, April 15: Vanessa Paradis, Feu! Chatterton, Charlie Winston, Oxmo Puccino
Thursday, April 16: Charlotte Cardin, Ofenbach, Helena, Superbus, Suzane
Friday, April 17: Vladimir Cauchemar, Mosimann, Magic System, Deluxe, Biga*Ranx, Luiza
Saturday, April 18: Josman, Zola, La Mano 1.9, L2B, Maureen, Danyl
Sunday, April 19: Gims, Linh
Stay tuned for additional announcements and prepare to celebrate 50 years of musical excellence in Bourges!
The 50th edition of Le Printemps de Bourges promises a star-studded lineup blending iconic legends and rising stars across genres, with over 100 artists set to perform from April 14 to 19, 2026.