Lalalib Back-to-School Concert

Every summer’s end, Dijon comes alive with Lalalib, the major free concert to mark the start of the new season, which transforms the city’s historic centre into a vast open-air stage. More than just a musical event, Lalalib has become a genuine popular tradition, a moment of intergenerational gathering that symbolically marks the end of the summer holidays and the start of Dijon’s cultural season.

The musical highlight of the year

The Lalalib adventure began in 2002, spearheaded by François Rebsamen, then the newly elected mayor of Dijon. His ambition was simple yet powerful: to offer everyone free access to music and culture, bringing the people of Dijon together for a popular, festive event right in the city centre.

In its early years, the event was simply called the ‘Concert de rentrée ’. Year after year, it established itself in the local cultural calendar and gradually became an unmissable event at the end of August.

An event that is an integral part of the Dijon landscape

A major turning point came in 2018: following a consultation with local residents, the people of Dijon chose to name it Lalalib. This evocative name refers to Burgundian folk songs, freedom and, of course, the Place de la Libération – nicknamed ‘Place de la Lib’ – the beating heart of the event.

For over two decades, Lalalib has continued to grow whilst staying true to its core values: free admission, accessibility and a diverse musical line-up. The event offers a programme designed for everyone, bringing together local artists, up-and-coming acts and national and international headliners.

An attractive setting

The event takes place on two stages set up in Place de la Libération and Place du Théâtre, offering nearly seven hours of non-stop concerts, from 6 pm until 1 am. A variety of musical genres are featured: pop, rock, electro, rap, French chanson, electro-swing… There’s something for all tastes and all generations.

Each year’s event attracts tens of thousands of spectators. In 2024, no fewer than 34,000 people turned up, and even with changeable weather in 2025, more than 20,000 festival-goers were there to enjoy the concerts.

Why choose the Lalalib experience?

It’s free and open to everyone: admission is free so that we can all enjoy a musical moment together.

It’s a true taste of life in Dijon: families, students and senior citizens all gather in the city’s iconic squares to sing, dance and make the most of the lingering summer.

The programme is eclectic and of high quality: each edition features a carefully curated line-up, combining up-and-coming talent with established artists.

It takes place in a unique setting: picture yourself in Place de la Libération, flanked by the Palais des Ducs, with lively terraces and a festive atmosphere spreading throughout the city.