The festival was founded in 2004 by Jacques Rocher, son of the founder of the Yves Rocher cosmetic brand.
The village of La Gacilly has a population of fewer than 5,000 residents, yet it hosts hundreds of thousands of visitors during the festival months.
All large-format prints are produced using eco-friendly inks on recyclable materials.
The festival grounds extend over several kilometers, covering both the village center and surrounding green spaces.
It is an entirely free-to-access event held in the public domain of the village.
The festival is a major hub for photojournalism, often highlighting environmental crises and social issues.
The Photo Festival Gacilly is the largest open-air photography festival in France, transforming the streets and gardens of La Gacilly into an expansive art gallery. Each year, large-format prints are displayed on building facades, fences, and throughout public parks. The festival emphasizes themes of environmental sustainability and human connection to nature. It features works from internationally renowned photographers alongside emerging talent. The entire village serves as the exhibition space, encouraging visitors to walk through the medieval-style streets to view the collection. The festival maintains a commitment to ecological responsibility in its production and material choices.
The path leading through the botanical gardens where large-scale portraits are often mounted against lush vegetation.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the village features cobblestone streets and varying elevations.
Carry a water bottle and sun protection, as much of the exhibition is outdoors and exposed to the elements.
Start your visit at the information center to pick up a map, as the exhibition locations change annually.
Attempting to see the entire exhibition in under two hours; the sheer volume of prints requires significant transit time on foot.
Open seasonally from early summer through early autumn; no winter operations.
Respect private property boundaries as some exhibitions are mounted on residential walls; remain mindful of residents living within the exhibition area.
