by Isabella Argosino

Once again, the entire city of Manila will be ignited with the sounds and beats of the annual Fête de la Musique festival. But this time, the Paris-originated celebration will be spread out into two weekends – June 18 and June 23.

What started out as a small cultural commemoration in France has now grown into one of the largest global musical movements. In Manila, for its 22nd year, fans get to enjoy three main stages, and more than twenty other pocket venues scattered all over the metro. Showcasing local talent while promoting cultural diversity, the event remains free for anyone who shares the same passion for art and music.

This year boasts headliners such as Satchmi’s own BP Valenzuela, Assembly Generals, Pupil, Curtismith, and French artist Nathan Zanagar, to name a few. Its second weekend, on the other hand, brings Jensen & The Flips, Banna Harbera, Up Dharma Down, and more, to the historical walls of Intramuros for the first time. Tempted yet? That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Fête’s true allure lies in its twenty-one (yup, twenty-one!) other sub-venues.

There are even more choices than ever before. While there are some returning favorites, such as the blues-soul-funk stage with Chocolate Grass and the Chillitees at H&J, the indie stage with Cheats and Tom’s Story at Green Sun, and the acoustic stage with Reese Lansangan and Toni B. at A-Space, there are also new selections for music junkies to enjoy and discover. The bedroom beats stage, presented by the Buwan Buwan Collective, and the open mic/spoken word stage by Words Anonymous are among the few bringing a fresh addition to the Fête family.

With an extensive roster of performers from different genres, you’re sure to find a stage that perfectly fits your musical palate. But then again, with a line-up that exciting, we know exactly what you’re thinking – how does one be in numerous places at the same time? Go figure.

Fête de la Musique is organized by The Alliance Française de Manille, Embassy of France to the Philippines, Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines, and is in partnership with B-Side productions. Zoom and view the full schedule below.