Mela
Solidays
Music

Solidays

A Paris music festival uniting artists and crowds in the fight against HIV/AIDS

Photo: Solidays, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Solidays is an annual music festival held at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France, usually in mid to late June. Over three days, more than 150 artists perform to support HIV/AIDS awareness and raise funds for organizations, especially those working in Africa.

Drawn for Mela from this festival's own symbols.
  • Held annually at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris
  • Over 150 artists perform each year
  • Proceeds support HIV/AIDS organizations
  • Features music, activism, and bungee jumping
  • Founded in 1999 by Luc Barruet

What it is

Solidays is a major music festival in Paris that brings together a diverse lineup of French and international artists for three days of concerts and events. Organized by Solidarité sida, a youth-focused HIV/AIDS awareness group, the festival is dedicated to raising both funds and awareness for the fight against HIV/AIDS. All proceeds are donated to organizations working on this cause, with a special focus on efforts in Africa. The festival is known for its spirit of solidarity, with performers often accepting reduced fees or playing for free to support the mission.

Where it comes from

Solidays began in 1999, founded by Luc Barruet and organized by Solidarité sida. It was created as a response to the urgent need for HIV/AIDS awareness and support, particularly among young people. From its inception, the festival has combined music with activism, using the power of live performance to draw attention to the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS. Over the years, it has grown into one of France’s largest and most socially engaged music festivals.

How it is celebrated

During Solidays, the Longchamp Racecourse transforms into a vibrant space filled with music, activism, and community. More than 150 artists perform across multiple stages, offering a mix of genres and styles. The festival is not just about music—attendees can also take part in activities like bungee jumping, and explore informational stands and exhibitions focused on HIV/AIDS awareness. The atmosphere is lively and inclusive, with festival-goers and artists alike united by a sense of purpose. Many performers appear for free or at reduced fees, emphasizing the event’s charitable mission.

Joining in

Visitors to Solidays can expect a dynamic festival experience in the heart of Paris. The main celebrations take place at the Longchamp Racecourse, easily accessible from the city center. As a newcomer, you’ll find a welcoming crowd, a packed schedule of concerts, and opportunities to learn about and support HIV/AIDS initiatives. The festival runs from Friday to Sunday, making it a popular summer event for locals and travelers alike.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Solidays, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

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This page was written with AI assistance from the sources listed above, and checked automatically before publishing. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.

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