Bagnols-sur-Cèze is gearing up for a vibrant summer as the municipality unveils the program for the eighth edition of the Ceztivales, which promises a rich tapestry of music, culture, and community festivities.
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, city officials revealed a series of exciting events set to take place between June 21 and August 23, 2025. A strong sense of community was underscored during the announcement, especially in light of the recent accident involving the mayor, Jean-Yves Chapelet, who was injured in a biking accident the previous day. First deputy Maxime Couston emphasized the importance of perseverance, stating the festivals will offer some much-needed joy amid tough times.
This year, the Ceztivales feature three major concerts at Mont-Cotton, aimed at attracting a diverse audience. The lineup includes vocal talent Jean-Baptiste Guégan, recognized for his uncanny resemblance to Johnny Hallyday, who will perform on Friday, July 11 at 8:30 PM. Tickets are priced at a modest €15, with discounted rates of €5 for children under 12. Following Guégan, renowned artist Marc Lavoine will take the stage on Saturday, July 12, performing a symphonic concert accompanied by a 40-piece orchestra, commemorating 40 years since the release of his hit "Elle a les yeux revolver". These tickets are set at €35, with €15 for younger attendees.
Not to be missed is the nostalgic evening set for Saturday, August 23, at 9 PM, featuring popular acts from the late 90s and early 2000s, cleverly titled “Hits 90-2000.” Charly and Lulu will host the event, with performances by beloved artists such as Larusso, L5, Benny B, Boris, and Lââm. Tickets for this event are priced at €10 and free for children under 12.
In addition to these highlights, the Ceztivales offers an impressive 33 days of animation across nine venues within the city. Free events are scheduled to run throughout the festival period, kicking off with the Fête de la Musique on June 21, which will include performances by local choirs and musicians. Other weekly events include Musical Thursdays at Place Mallet on July 17, July 24, July 31, and August 7 and 14. At Place Bertin-Boissin, festivities will continue with singing contests scheduled for July 18 and August 8, wrapping up with vibrant performances on August 1. Jazz fans can look forward to a jazz series at Place du Château on July 15, July 29, and August 12, featuring acts like Mundo Azur and Louisiana Stomp.
On July 21 and August 4, the Place du Château will host musical cinema screenings, while Cour Saint-Maur will feature dramatizations under the stars on July 8, July 22, and August 5. The beloved karaoke nights are also back on July 25 and August 22, and a circus theater event will graced Square Marcel-Pagnol on August 20, guaranteeing enjoyment for all ages.
The traditional celebration of music on July 14 will involve a grand evening of rock, funk, and variety music led by RIMSHOT, who will perform at Place Bertin-Boissin, followed by a spectacular laser show. Concurrently, at Place Jean-Jaurès, attendees can revel in a Catalan rumba performance by Alegria Gipsy.
This year’s events also feature taurine festivities, including a Bodega event on June 14 at the Posterlon, followed by the Fiesta Bagnolaise on July 5 and 6, and a Fête votive from September 5 to 7.
Maxime Couston, emphasizing the proven success of previous festivals, noted, “We are keeping a formula that works.” He expressed optimism for the 2025 edition, reiterating the commitment to maintaining the festival’s budget at €300,000, with half allocated for the Mont-Cotton concerts. This budget remains consistent with last year’s funding, further demonstrating the city’s dedication to enriching its cultural scene.
Adding to the cultural vibrancy, Michel Cegielski, the cultural deputy, insisted that culture be present in every aspect of community life. He highlighted the commitment to blending joyous festivities with captivating cultural experiences, promising a lineup that reflects this philosophy.
As the Ceztivales approaches, Bagnols-sur-Cèze looks forward to an unforgettable summer, filled with color, music, and community spirit, fostering connections and celebrating life through artistic expressions.
