It's a day music lovers eagerly await each year. The Fête de la musique returns on Sunday, June 21, 2026 with, as always, a wealth of great deals and gigs of all kinds. From rock to rap, including metal, hip-hop, jazz, blues, electro, French pop or dancehall... This year, all genres are once again in the spotlight.
But actually, what's the origin of the Fête de la musique in France? In October 1981, Jack Lang, then Minister of Culture, appointed Maurice Fleuret as Director of Music and Dance. An inquiry into the cultural practices of the French was launched in 1982 by the Ministry of Culture’s Studies and Research Service. It found that one in two young people plays a musical instrument. From there, Jack Lang, Christian Dupavillon, a member of his Cabinet, and Maurice Fleuret imagined a large, popular event. The aim? To give all musicians a chance to express themselves and to be heard. The first Fête de la musique thus came to life on June 21, 1982, the symbolic midsummer solstice day.
Since then, the Fête de la musique has become an annual affair that French people look forward to every June 21. While this major event is a chance to discover amateur artists on every street corner, it’s also the perfect day to catch well-known, acclaimed musicians in free concerts.
June 21, 2026 sticks to the same rule, with several music-packed options not to miss. If you’re planning to explore the 11th arrondissement this year, head to rue Ternaux. Kidding Aside is hosting a free open-air to mark this year’s Music Day, inviting the acclaimed duo Acid Arab, as well as Upsilone and Lizy! So join us on June 21, 2026 from 7 p.m. to experience this unique, in-person moment — and for free.
Sunday, June 21, 2026, 7:00–10:00 PM — Rue Ternaux, 75011 Paris — Free
Line-up :
Dates and Opening Time
On June 21, 2026
From 07:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location
Ternaux Street
Rue Ternaux
75011 Paris 11
Prices
Free
