Mauges Pit Fest: A Celebration of Metal and Female Artists

In the wake of major meetings like the Hellfest, the Mauges Pit Fest affirms its identity and its will to make Metal shine. For its fourth edition, the Saint-Macaire-en-Mauges festival spends two days, on October 3 and 4, brings together thirteen groups and highlights female artists.

The Rise of Local Metal Festivals

In France, while Hellfest remains the definitive metal festival with its eighteen years of history, 240,000 attendees, and 200 bands, it is no longer the sole representative of the genre. Numerous smaller festivals, driven by passion, are emerging to add vibrancy to the metal scene. Events like the Barbeuk Metal Fest, Muscadeath, Omega Sound Fest, Westil Fest, and Quai Metal demonstrate this growing diversity.

Introducing the Mauges Pit Fest

Set to celebrate its fourth edition on October 3 and 4, the Mauges Pit Fest is expanding to a two-day event featuring thirteen bands. This year, the festival stands out for its commitment to promoting female artists within the metal genre.

Highlighting Female Representation

Fabrice Breheret, president of the Mac N’Roll Mattalicus association, which organizes the festival, explains, “We find that female artists are under-represented on the metal scene.” The festival prioritizes showcasing French talent, particularly local and regional artists, while also spotlighting the increasing number of female-led bands across the country. This year, the festival features five groups with female leaders, accounting for 40% of the lineup.

Enhanced Festival Experience

This year, the Mauges Pit Fest introduces a campsite for festival-goers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. “We cannot let them in a field manage,” Breheret remarks, emphasizing the importance of proper reception facilities.

Artist Welfare

The festival is equally dedicated to artist hospitality. “We want to provide quality catering,” Breheret states, highlighting their collaboration with a caterer to offer hearty meals instead of standard festival fare. Additionally, all performing groups will have access to individual lodges for rest, and a dedicated backstage team will assist with logistics and needs.

Volunteer Involvement

To realize its ambitions, the festival relies on the support of around 200 volunteers. Breheret notes that finding volunteers in a small village like Saint-Macaire-en-Mauges is mostly done through personal relationships, as the association seeks individuals who share their values.

A Community-Driven Initiative

The Mac N’Roll Mattalicus association, comprised of 46 members, manages a budget of €75,000 for the festival, funded by both public and private contributions, with 25 patrons supporting the event since its inception.

Diverse Lineup for All Metal Fans

The Mauges Pit Fest promises an eclectic metal lineup that appeals to a broad audience. “We don’t want to restrict ourselves to a single style,” Breheret explains, contrasting their approach with other festivals that often focus on specific sub-genres. This year, the festival features bands like Swiss Kassoghta, Charentais Octopus King, Deux-Sévriens Koudata, and others, showcasing a mix of both female and male artists.

Event Details

Date: October 3 and 4, 2023

Campsite: Available from Friday at 5:30 PM to Sunday at 1:00 PM

Tickets: Day passes range from €11 to €35; two-day passes are between €24 and €48.

For more information: Visit our social media pages and France.tv for updates.

Conclusion

The Mauges Pit Fest embodies the spirit of the metal community, promoting inclusivity and diversity while simultaneously celebrating local talent. By emphasizing female representation and enhancing the festival experience for both attendees and artists, it positions itself as a vital contributor to the metal scene in France.

FAQs

What dates does the Mauges Pit Fest take place?

The festival is scheduled for October 3 and 4, 2023.

Is there camping available at the festival?

Yes, a free campsite will be available from Friday at 5:30 PM until Sunday at 1:00 PM.

How much do tickets cost?

Day passes range from €11 to €35, while two-day passes are priced between €24 and €48.

Are there any female-led bands performing?

Yes, the festival features five bands with female leaders, making up 40% of the lineup.

How can I get involved as a volunteer?

Volunteers must be sponsored by a member of the organizing association, Mac N’Roll Mattalicus.