Les Escales, Saint-Nazaire: dates, programme, tickets and practical information

Les Escales in Saint-Nazaire: contemporary music and international artists in a harbour setting. The 2026 edition is over; the 2027 dates are still to come.

Suggested time: 1 to 3 days
Type of place: Contemporary music festival
Atmosphere: Festive, cultural and immersive, with an identity strongly linked to the place and the line-up
Getting there: Île du Petit Maroc, about a 10-minute walk from central Saint-Nazaire; train, bus and bike are useful.

Who this place suits

With family: 7/10
As a couple: 8/10
With friends: 10/10
Solo: 9/10
With a dog: 2/10
Reduced mobility: 8/10

These scores are calculated from what the page records: official rating, facilities, difficulty, duration and location. They are a guide, not a substitute for contacting the venue, especially about accessibility.

About

Les Escales was born in Saint-Nazaire and has built an international identity, in the image of the port town and its opening onto the estuary. The Île du Petit Maroc site offers a unique setting. In 2026, Gaël Faye, Archive, Benjamin Biolay, Deluxe, Fatoumata Diawara, Thylacine and Josman were on the bill. Dates, prices, programme, access and rules change every year. The 2026 edition took place from 24 to 26 July 2026.

What you will see

A harbour site on the Île du Petit Maroc
An international line-up
Three days of festival
Free for under-12s in 2026
Several areas and stages
An identity strongly linked to Saint-Nazaire.

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A line-up centred on contemporary music and international artists.
Big crowds possible: plan transport, accommodation and bookings ahead.

Practical information

Address: Île du Petit Maroc, Saint-Nazaire
Public transport: Île du Petit Maroc, about a 10-minute walk from central Saint-Nazaire; train, bus and bike are useful
Pets: Pets not allowed on site, except guide and assistance dogs
Accessibility: The site has facilities for disabled visitors; check the specific services and access for each edition
Best time: Arrive early for the big moments and leave time for security checks, shuttles and moving between stages

Tips on the spot

The 2026 edition took place from 24 to 26 July 2026; the 2027 dates are still to come.
Tickets: Paid for the main evenings; free for under-12s in 2026.
Check the official website just before you travel: times, bag checks, banned items and traffic plans can change.
For a big festival, book accommodation and transport well in advance.
Bring comfortable shoes, clothes for the weather, ear protection for loud concerts and a power bank.

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If a cashless system is used, create and top up your account before you arrive.
With children or teenagers, check the age and supervision rules and the recommended ear protection.

Frequently asked questions

When is Les Escales?

The 2026 edition took place from 24 to 26 July 2026. The 2027 dates are still to come.

Where does Les Escales take place?

Île du Petit Maroc, Saint-Nazaire.

Is the festival free?

No, the main evenings are paid; entry was free for under-12s in 2026.

What style of festival is it?

Contemporary music and international artists.

How much time should I allow?

1 to 3 days, depending on your plans.

How do I get there?

Île du Petit Maroc, about a 10-minute walk from central Saint-Nazaire; train, bus and bike are useful.

Stay in Saint-Nazaire

Places to stay that are still available, with current prices, compared across the main booking platforms.

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