The Eurockéennes of Belfort kick off Thursday for their 35th edition with Iron Maiden headlining opening night. Controversies, musical diversity, and technical feats define this essential summer event.
Iron Maiden headlines, Caribbean rhythms are in the spotlight, and controversial artists like rapper Freeze Corleone and Northern Irish group Kneecap spark debate: the Eurockéennes music festival in Belfort opens Thursday for four intense days.
“We’re expecting a big turnout this year, with between 115,000 and 120,000 tickets sold — which is excellent considering the current climate for major festivals,” said Jean-Paul Roland, the festival’s director.
Last year, 127,500 fans showed up for acts including David Guetta at the 34th edition.
But for the 35th edition, breaking from tradition, the headliner won’t close the festival on Sunday night but instead kick things off Thursday: legendary British band Iron Maiden. “We’re the only festival in France to host them, and there aren’t many stops on their world tour,” Roland emphasized. “Having them at the Eurocks is a real honor. We landed a major coup.”
For Belfort’s festival, hosting this onstage powerhouse is a technical challenge like no other: “We’ll have the biggest screen we’ve ever used! Even bigger than what Daft Punk or Depeche Mode had,” promised the director. “Their strength lies in blending classic rock with ultra-modern visuals — it’s all about hyperrealism.”
“It’s the first time we’ve had tech crews arriving as early as Tuesday for a show on Thursday,” added Roland, highlighting the cost of the 50+ additional technicians required for the setup.
Philippe Katerine and Serge Gainsbourg
Despite rising expenses — artist fees, insurance, logistics — the Eurockéennes remain financially solid. “So far, we’ve managed to match our ambitions with the means to back them. Public funding hasn’t decreased, especially from the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region.”
As always, the festival offers a cultural spotlight on rising genres. After last year’s focus on shatta, this year’s edition explores bouyon, another trending Caribbean sound represented by Holly’G and Totally Spice’s. “It’s a musical journey we’re passionate about,” Roland explained. “The spirit of the festival is also about embracing new cultures.”
French talent is also in the spotlight: “It’s a great year for French artists. From Clara Luciani to SDM and Philippe Katerine,” who has been riding a wave of success since his performance at the Olympic Games opening ceremony last year.
Electronic duo Acid Arab will deliver a Mediterranean set, and the Comédie-Française will perform for the first time at the festival — paying tribute to Serge Gainsbourg. “It’s the first time a theater company is doing something with us,” Roland noted.
On the electro side, big names like DJ Snake, Justice, and Bicep will hit the stage. “According to the New York Times, Justice is currently the best live show you can experience,” he added.
However, two cancellations are on the books: Uncle Waffles and Ultra Vomit. Replacing them is controversial rapper Freeze Corleone, whose inclusion has stirred backlash.
Freeze Corleone has repeatedly faced accusations of antisemitism and homophobia. Though never convicted, many of his concerts have been canceled. Following criticism from a far-right MP and the regional council, the local prefecture has launched a legal review that may lead to his show being banned.
So uncertainty still surrounds his performance, scheduled for Sunday at 7:00 p.m., with organizers awaiting a decision from authorities.
Meanwhile, the festival continues its environmental efforts with a “100% green camping” project, including composting toilets, waste sorting, and improved crowd management. A full proposal will be submitted this fall.
By Eva CHIBANE / AFP
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