Utopiales festival adopts new design

The Utopiales festival, now in its 27th year, has changed its layout based on a poster created by author and comic book editor Léa Murawiec. The theme of the event is "Perspectives," which is reflected in the new design and organization of the festival space.

Attendance lower than in previous years

Despite the festival's usual audience of geeks, metalheads, students, and young adults, attendance was lower than in the previous two years. A total of 120,000 people attended compared to 150,000 in 2025. Organizers attributed this to demonstrations in the city that affected public transport and hotel availability.

Logistical changes due to construction

The festival faced logistical challenges as construction work displaced the main auditorium and the usual entrance, which had previously housed shops and exhibition space. The ticket office was moved to a new location, and video games and virtual reality cinema were relocated to Bitche, a nearby town.

Festival bookstore sees modest sales increase

The festival's bookstore sold 18,200 books in four days, a slight increase from last year, despite the drop in attendance. Notable authors such as Veronica Roth, known for the Divergent trilogy, were present, and Claire North’s The Slow Gods won the Utopiales prize.

Financial challenges and funding efforts

The festival faced financial difficulties due to the absence of a 47,500 euro subsidy from the regional council of Pays de la Loire, which made up 15% of the budget. Organizers have had to rely on many small partnerships to cover the budget, while keeping ticket prices for evening cinema and game sessions unchanged for several years.

International publishers visit festival

The French Institute invited 14 international publishers from the United States, Spain, and South Korea to the festival. Topics of discussion included publishing processes, rights sales, and the role of artificial intelligence in translation. The group also participated in a lunch cocktail and explored ways to enhance the festival's international presence.

Festival includes community events and honors past leaders

The festival featured a "Citizens' off" with events like horror text readings and meetings between students and publishers. The absence of Pierre Bordage, the festival's long-time president who passed away in late 2025, was noted. His son read his texts, and his former publisher Mireille Rivalland passed on his role to Eva Sinanian.

Festival aims for professional growth and sustainability

The organizers emphasized the festival's goal to become more professional, with discussions on publishing science fiction for young readers and science fiction poetry. Sustainability efforts were also highlighted, including the use of reusable cups and vegetarian menus. Next year, the entire Palais des congrès will be under construction, presenting opportunities for new partnerships and ideas.