From 1 to 6 September 2026, the Francofolies de La Réunion bring the west coast of the island to life. For six days, Réunionese artists and leading names from the French-speaking music scene perform in Saint-Paul, Saint-Gilles-les-Bains and La Saline-les-Bains. Staying at Senteur Vanille lets you enjoy the festival atmosphere and return, after the concerts, to the peace of a tropical estate above Saint-Gilles.
Intimate concerts at Léspas, evenings under the stars at the TÉAT Plein Air, a free event in central Saint-Gilles and major shows at La Clairière: the 2026 edition offers several ways to experience the festival. Here is the verified programme, practical information and our advice for planning your stay.
Francofolies 2026 at a glance
- Dates: Tuesday 1 to Sunday 6 September 2026.
- Venues: Léspas in Saint-Paul, the TÉAT Plein Air and central Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, followed by La Clairière in La Saline-les-Bains.
- Free highlight: “Dann Sin Zil” on Thursday 3 September in central Saint-Gilles.
- Tickets: check tickets and availability on the official Francofolies ticketing page.
- Programme: checked on 3 September 2026 and subject to change. Review the official timetable before setting off.
A travelling festival in the heart of western Réunion
The Francofolies are not confined to a single stage. The festival unfolds across several landmark venues, each with its own atmosphere. In Saint-Paul, Léspas hosts the opening evenings in an intimate setting. In Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, the TÉAT Plein Air presents concerts under the stars, while “Dann Sin Zil” turns the town centre into a free musical trail. La Clairière in La Saline-les-Bains then hosts the major concerts from Friday to Sunday.
This format is also a chance to discover different sides of the west coast: the heritage of Saint-Paul, the lively centre of Saint-Gilles and the beaches and lagoon of La Saline. Explore more ideas for your days on our Réunion Island destination page.
Francofolies de La Réunion 2026 programme
Tuesday 1 September: opening night at Léspas
The festival opens in Saint-Paul with OYRI’S and Awa Ly. This intimate first evening sets the tone for the week through distinctive voices and musical encounters.
Wednesday 2 September: Emma Nona, Solann and Mathias Malzieu
At the TÉAT Plein Air, the evening begins at 8 pm with Emma Nona. Originally from Saint-Paul, she creates a sensitive form of maloya fusion rooted in Réunionese memory and open to the world. At 9 pm, Solann, named Female Revelation at the 2025 Victoires de la Musique, follows with her theatrical world and instantly recognisable voice.
The same evening, Mathias Malzieu performs at Léspas in Saint-Paul.
Thursday 3 September: “Dann Sin Zil”, a free evening in Saint-Gilles
On Thursday, the Francofolies take over central Saint-Gilles-les-Bains for a free event open to everyone, organised with the West Réunion Tourist Office. Stages are spread across Place de la Baleine, Place du Marché, the Roches Noires esplanade and several partner venues.
The line-up includes Junior, Emmanuelle Ivara, Greg B2B Da Nillo, Matteo B2B Artem, Joyce Mena, Kanasel, LOMOR, Kermittita, Squareduck, Nikki Never Dies, Migui, Ti Rat et Rouge Reggae, Soa Ravelo and Le Waki Band, with further surprises.
Friday 4 September: Aurus, Yael Naim, Disiz and Naïka
Friday offers two different atmospheres. At the TÉAT Plein Air, Aurus, also known as Bastien Picot, blends maloya, pop, polyphony and electronic textures. Yael Naim then presents an immersive new show combining electronic music with classical orchestration.
At La Clairière, the bill features Disiz, Naïka, Ino Casablanca, Danyl and Joyce Mena, moving between alternative pop, rap, R&B and Caribbean influences.
Saturday 5 September: Grèn Sémé, Lo’Jo, Oxmo Puccino and Mosimann
At the TÉAT Plein Air, Grèn Sémé performs contemporary maloya shaped by poetic and socially engaged lyrics. Lo’Jo follows with travelling music enriched by traditional instruments, electronic sounds and influences from across the world.
At La Clairière, the line-up includes Oxmo Puccino, Taïro, Mosimann, Juste Shani and MAFAT 808 by Aleksand Saya.
Sunday 6 September: Zaz, Bénabar and the finale at La Clairière
The final major evening takes place at La Clairière with Zaz, Luiza, Bénabar, Tine Poppy and Franck et Damien. It is a closing celebration where French chanson, pop and artists from Réunion meet.
Why stay at Senteur Vanille during the festival?
Located above Saint-Gilles-les-Bains on Route du Théâtre, Senteur Vanille is particularly well placed for evenings at the TÉAT Plein Air. The estate also offers convenient access to the other western venues while keeping you away from the bustle of the town centres.
After a concert, return to a peaceful, green setting in the heart of a tropical garden. Depending on your group, choose a villa for a family or friends, a lodge for its timber atmosphere and views, or a studio for simplicity and independence. Discover our villas, lodges and studios in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.
Practical tips for enjoying the Francofolies
- Book through official channels: some evenings or ticket categories may sell out.
- Check the timetable on the day: the programme and entry arrangements may change.
- Plan your journeys: concerts take place across several towns and venues. See the official page for access, parking and transport.
- Bring suitable clothing: September evenings are pleasant on the west coast, but outdoor venues can feel cooler after sunset.
- Leave time to explore the island: beaches, lagoons, markets, hikes and volcanic landscapes naturally complement a musical break.
A stay filled with music, nature and island living
A trip to the Francofolies de La Réunion is an opportunity to discover French-speaking music while exploring one of the island’s liveliest regions. From Senteur Vanille, you can reach the concerts, enjoy the west coast and return between events to the calm of accommodation surrounded by tropical greenery.
Planning your stay for the Francofolies?
Compare our accommodation and contact us to find the option that best suits your dates and number of guests.
Information checked on 3 September 2026 against the official Francofolies de La Réunion website. For last-minute changes, consult the official programme.