After two reduced editions, the festival La Grosse Lanterne returns to its more regular form due to hygiene measures. For three days, festival-goers will combine camping and shows in the woods by groups like Bran Van 3000 and Le Couleur.
Founded in 2014, the La Grosse Lanterne festival has not had an easy existence. Over the years, the Montérégie event has been supported by various partners who have in turn abandoned ship. In 2018 and 2019, the organizers decided to take a break to reshuffle the cards.
Then came the pandemic. However, founder Mathieu Pontbriand did not give up and decided to return in 2020 with Petites Lanternes, an edition that respected the health measures and the maximum of 250 people. The festival in a reduced form should also be presented in 2021.
This year, La Grosse Lanterne finally returns to its previous formula for the first time since 2017!
“We’re coming back to a real edition and we hope people will be there,” says Mathieu Pontbriand. I’m pretty confident. I think people can’t wait for things to get back to normal. »
To mark the occasion, festival-goers are entitled to a three-day event from August 19th to 21st. On Friday night Vanwho, Myriam Gendron and Julie Doiron & Dany Placard play.
Saturday will be the heaviest day with concerts from noon to three in the morning. Performances include Alex Burger, Gazoline, Bon Enfant, Le Couleur and Bran Van 3000. The festival concludes on Sunday lunchtime with performances by Paul Jacobs and Yesterday’s Ring.
With kind approval
Bran Van 3000
like a family
When asked if La Grosse Lanterne could possibly get bigger, Mathieu Pontbriand replies that geographical distance complicates things.
“We are 1h15 from Montreal and there is not much in this area. It’s hard for me to imagine that it could really get any bigger. We’re doomed to be a little apart. Even if I wanted to bring international artists, where do I put them? It’s not like a big tourist center. »
The founder adds that he is very happy with the festival he and his team have built.
“I think we have our place in the world of festivals in Quebec. We do it our way. The Big Lantern is like family. We have a great sense of belonging. If it stays that way, I’ll be very happy. »
► The 7th edition of the festival La Grosse Lanterne will take place from August 19th to 21st in Béthanie, Montérégie. For all information: biglantern.ca