Main Square Festival 2024 : le guide © Anton Gvozdikov - Adobe Stock

Get ready to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Main Square Festival in style! From July 4 to 7, 2024, the Citadelle d'Arras comes alive with performances by Placebo, Sam Smith, Justice, Ninho, and Lenny Kravitz, among others. Four days of explosive partying await you to mark this spectacular anniversary edition!

What is the Main Square Festival?

As one of the 20 Must-See Music Festivals in France in 2024 ,Arras has become a must-attend event! Since its first edition in 2004, the Main Square Festival has established itself as a major music event in Europe. It has evolved from a simple musical event to a global cultural experience. It is rooted in the festive traditions of northern France. It attracts up to 45,000 people and is held on the Grand'Place. Its reputation is immense, thanks to its Flemish Baroque architecture and the fact that it now welcomes 30,000 festival-goers a day!

What's on the program?

Main Square Festival
Main Square Festival @mainsquarefestival - instagram.com

The festival offers a wide range of activities, from rock, pop and electronic concerts to interactive workshopsand art exhibitions. Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, Main Square also features relaxation zones and areas dedicated to families. Book your festival tickets now!

Who will be performing at the Main Square Festival 2024?

Every year, Main Square brings together internationally renowned artists as well as emerging talents. The 2024 edition is no exception, with headliners like Coldplay and a stage dedicated to new local talent. Set to kick off on July 4 in Arras, the festival promises dazzling diversity from day one. On the Main Stage, the event kicks off with Patrice and his reggae fusion. He is followed by Louis Tomlinson , who will charm with his pop hits. Then Sean Paul raises the energy with his inimitable dancehall style. And Placebo, with its dark rock, will dominate the evening before giving way to Vladimir Cauchemar for a night of electro beats. Meanwhile, the Green Room will be buzzing with the sounds of Gaumar, Bianca Costa and Zola. All in all, a first day rich in varied musical performances. Every stage of the festival, from the Bastion to the Green Room, reflects a unique blend of genres and talents. Are you ready for four days of memorable festivities?

How do I get to the Main Square Festival?

Arras is easily accessible by train from Paris and Lille, with regular shuttles between the station and the festival. Dedicated parking lots are also available if you prefer to travel by car. So getting to the Main Square Festival in Arras is relatively straightforward. Located in the Citadelle d'Arras, a World Heritage site, the entrance is also accessible by shuttle bus from the station. To avoid traffic jams, use public transport or car-share. And before you go, check out the Festival Essentials: the Indispensable Checklist !

Take a look at train fares now, and book without delay !

Where to stay near the Festival?

Discover the best accommodation in Arras, close to the Festival. Here are 3 that caught our eye:

  1. NAJETI - HÔTEL DE L'UNIVERS : the converted 17th-century Jesuit monastery offers luxury accommodation and a renowned restaurant in Arras. Located close to the train station and town center, it combines historic charm with modern comforts. Personalized services and festive events enliven the venue, including wine tasting sessions and gala dinners.
  2. GITE MOSAIQUE : a charming red-brick house rated City Break Premium, nestled between the Citadelle and the city center. Indeed, this home suggests a welcoming setting with a living room featuring a fireplace and comfortable bedrooms. Careful decoration and all modern amenities complete the stay.
  3. LA CORNE D'OR - Bed & Breakfast: located in the heart of the historic center of Arras, this guesthouse occupies an 18th-century mansion. With its rooms, suites and loft, each is decorated in a unique style such as Baroque or Nature.

Where to eat during the Main Square Festival?

Arras is packed with bistros and restaurants. As a result, festival-goers can discover local cuisine, from the famous flamiche to andouillettes d'Arras, accompanied by local craft beers. Here are some not-to-be-missed places to feast your eyes on:

  • LE PETIT RAT PORTEUR: located between Arras' two squares, this restaurant boasts a charming atmosphere and fresh regional dishes such as welsh, andouillette, and potjevleesch. In addition, special emphasis is placed on maroilles in several recipes.
  • LE P'TIT DEMON : located at the foot of the belfry, Le P'tit Démon in Arras combines bistronomic bar and charming restaurant. It boasts a varied weekly menu of fresh, home-cooked dishes, including meat, poultry and fish options. All in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
  • LE PÊCHÉ GOURMAND : on the road to Cambrai, the Pêché Gourmand team offers brasserie-style cuisine at lunchtime, and more elaborate dishes in the evening and at weekends. You'll enjoy a warm welcome and a majority of home-cooked dishes.

What are the dates of the Main Square Festival 2024?

The festival will be held from July 4 to 7, 2024, for three days of unforgettable festivities. This edition promises to bring together internationally renowned artists as well as emerging talents in the historic setting of the Citadelle. Get ready to experience exceptional moments filled with music, culture and festivities right in the heart of summer.

Where to park for the Main Square Festival?

Temporary parking lots are set up for the event. Frequent shuttle services provide easy access to the Citadelle. In and around Arras, 5,000 parking spaces are available free of charge. And free shuttle buses connect each of these parking lots.

The Main Square Festival 2024 is a celebration of culture and the art of living. With its historic setting, diverse program and warm welcome, the festival promises a memorable experience. Don't miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the festive world of Arras!

Would you like more information about accommodation in Arras and other must-see festivals in France in 2024? Log on to theFestival News section of the Petit Futé !