Festival d'Aix-en-Provence 2026

The Festival d'Aix-en-Provence returns for its 2026 edition, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of opera and classical music from July 2 to 21. Founded in 1948 by Countess Lily Pastré, this annual summer festival has grown into one of Europe's most prestigious cultural events, with performances staged in historic venues like the Théâtre de l'Archevêché and the modern Grand Théâtre de Provence.

This year's program features a rich lineup of operatic masterpieces, including Mozart's "Die Zauberflöte" (The Magic Flute) directed by Clément Cogitore, Richard Strauss's "Die Frau ohne Schatten" conducted by Klaus Mäkelä and staged by Barrie Kosky, and a new production of Mozart's Requiem by Romeo Castellucci and Raphaël Pichon. Contemporary works like Francesco Filidei's "Accabadora" and Hans Werner Henze's "El Cimarrón" add modern depth to the repertoire.

Beyond the mainstage operas, the festival offers a diverse concert series featuring acclaimed artists such as soprano Sonya Yoncheva, tenor Benjamin Bernheim, and pianist Pierre-Laurent Aimard. Performances take place at the Conservatoire Darius Milhaud and other intimate settings, providing attendees with a wide range of musical experiences from baroque to contemporary.