2027 International Choir Festival in Normandy
April 15–19, 2027
In 2027, the cities of Caen and Normandy are preparing to celebrate an exceptional event: the 1000th anniversary of the birth of William the Conqueror. In addition, 2027 has been designated the
European Year of the Normans, aiming to highlight the cultural, political, and architectural legacy left by the Normans throughout Europe, from England to Southern Italy.
The
2027 Normandy International Choral Festival is a part of the official agenda of this anniversary event, within which a prestigious concert will be organized at the
Zenith Theater in Caen, seating up to 7,000 spectators, and featuring the participation of Norwegian composer and pianist
Ola Gjeilo.
FESTIVAL ITINERARY
Wednesday, April 14 – Fly to France
Your
International Choir Festival in Normandy experience begins with an overnight flight from North America to
Paris, France.
Thursday, April 15 – Welcome to France | Caen Memorial
Your Music Contact International tour manager will greet your ensemble at the airport in
Paris. Together, board your private motorcoach and take in first impressions of the beautiful French countryside as you travel to your hotel in historic
Normandy.
En route, stop in
Caen, the seaside capital of Lower Normandy. Many of this city’s landmarks are crafted from local Caen stone, a cream-colored limestone quarried nearby. Explore Caen’s picturesque harbor and enjoy free time for lunch at your leisure.
Next, visit the
Caen Memorial, a museum dedicated to peace. Built on the site of a former bunker, the Caen Memorial is considered the best World War II museum in France. Wander through the museum’s memorial gardens and poignant photographic exhibitions honoring this unforgettable fixture in global history.
Continue to your hotel in Normandy. Check in and refresh before enjoying a hearty dinner at the hotel.
Friday, April 16 – Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey | Friendship Concert
Wake up to your first day in France! Enjoy breakfast in the hotel dining room.
Board your private motor coach for a visit to
Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site rising dramatically from the Normandy coast. Marvel at the medieval abbey perched atop a rocky island, explore the abbey’s Gothic architecture, and immerse yourself in centuries of history. Enjoy lunch on your own in the quaint village before returning to your hotel to get ready for your friendship concert with a local or international choir at a venue in the Normandy area.
After the friendship concert, you’ll enjoy a group dinner with your new choir friends.
Saturday, April 17 – Utah Beach | Gala Concert
After breakfast, spend today on a guided excursion of
Utah Beach, the first of five coastal sectors of the Allied invasion during World War II. Your choir’s guided visit will combine historical information on each site, as well as time to explore and climb inside the bunkers and stroll on the beautiful sandy beaches of the Normandy coast.
Next, visit the
Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Coleville-sur-Mer. Overlooking Omaha Beach, this stunning 172-acre memorial honors the fallen American soldiers of World War II.
That evening you’ll attend the Gala Concert at the Zenith Theater of Caen, followed by a group dinner.
French flag and American flag standing tall for peace at top of dunes, Utah beach, Normandy, France.
Sunday, April 18 – Agon-Coutainville | Closing Concert
This morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic drive through
La Manche, a lush, rural region nestled on the English Channel. See the magnificent
Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey standing tall on the tidal island of the same name. Continue to
Agon-Coutainville and enjoy free time wandering about this beautiful historic city.
Attend the Closing Concert with participating choirs at Lessay Abbey, an 11th century Romanesque Benedictine Abbey and one of the most important Norman Romanesque churches. Following the concert, your ensemble will enjoy a group dinner shared with all participating choirs.
Monday, April 19 – Fly Home
Your International Choir Festival experience ends with a private coach from Normandy to Paris Charles de Gaulle, where you will embark on your return flight to North America.
PACKAGE INCLUDES
Complimentary Travel
Two free land packages in single occupancy for every 30 paying travelers.
Accommodations
Four nights at a well-located
3-star hotel in Normandy (Coutances area or similar).
Meals
- Breakfast daily at your hotel with coffee, tea, and juice
- Dinner daily (4 total)
Special Events, Performances & Exchanges
- Friendship Concert near Caen
- Attend the Gala Concert at the Zenith Theater in Caen (Select choirs may apply to perform at this event)
- Closing Concert at Lessay Abbey
Guided Tours & Entrances
- Entrance to Caen Memorial
- Day excursion to Utah Beach & Coleville-sur-Mer
- Guided tour of Utah Beach and museum entrance included
- Entrance to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
- Visit to Agon-Coutainville
Tour Manager & Local Guides
- Full-time Music Contact International tour manager accompanying your group for the duration of your stay
- Full-time bilingual French guide
Transportation
Private motor coach transportation for all transfers to festival events and activities as described in the itinerary.
Want to bring your ensemble to Normandy, France, in 2027? Contact us to learn more about packages, pricing, and the benefits of traveling with MCI!
