Bergen International FestivalFestspillene i Bergen

Bergen International Festival (Festspillene i Bergen) is the flagship arts festival of Bergen, Norway. Held annually in late May / early June for 15 days, it features classical music, opera, theatre, dance, debates and family events 1 2. The programme “builds on classical music and theatrical art, branching out in a variety of directions” to embrace international stars and new artists 1. The festival emphasizes public engagement (many events are free) and spans the entire city – from orchestral concerts in Grieghallen to open-air performances at Torgallmenningen and exhibitions at Bergen Kunsthall 3. Each spring it attracts tens of thousands of visitors, reflecting Bergen’s identity as a city of music and art.

Bergen International Festival is rooted in Norway’s musical tradition (Edvard Grieg was instrumental in its conception) and the city’s cultural heritage. It was modeled on the Salzburg Festival and anchored by local patronage (King Harald V is honorary patron) 1 2. The festival has become a community institution where “high culture” is made public: audiences sing the Norwegian anthem together and enjoy large free concerts during the opening ceremony 3 4. Bergen’s role as a UNESCO Creative City (Gastronomy) and historical Hanseatic port also give it a cosmopolitan context range for this festival.