From Wednesday to Sunday, Geneva harbor will be transformed into a real playground for young and old thanks to “Genève Genève”. Organized by the “Faites Genève” association on behalf of the city, this event will offer a multitude of free entertainment and activities for all ages. The highlight will be a major sound and light show on August 16 and 17. The co-coordinators Frédéric Favre and Aymon Choisy, as well as Léa, responsible for several musical scenes, were my guests.
The “Genève Genève” program is designed to satisfy all tastes and all generations. “There are 450 artists who will be present for 5 days, representing 91 artistic proposals,” specifies Aymon Choisy. “You will have to make your schedule in advance because there are days when 6 to 8 things happen at the same time.”
For children, activities such as the “minis boom”, or even dance initiations are planned. “I am very proud to welcome an 8-year-old DJ who comes with his dad,” says Léa. “It’s Little L who comes to mix with his dad Thiago Big T.”
Teenagers are not left out with concerts, a graffiti workshop, and even stand-up karaoke hosted by comedian Nadim Kayne. “It’s a mix of false notes and very good jokes,” adds Léa.
Concerts, well-being and cuisine
Adults can enjoy pilates, Afro-Dance, Qi Gong and yoga classes. “It starts at the Pont de la Machine platform at 6:30 a.m. with our wellness scene,” explains Frédéric Favre. “In the morning, it’s straight to a horizontal meditation concert with headphones and then Qigong, Pilates, Yoga classes.”
Several stages will be erected around the harbor to host numerous concerts, including in unusual locations, explains Léa. “Every morning, you will have violin concerts, other concerts, we even have ukuleles that will come and play on the seagulls.”
In addition to artistic activities, “Genève Genève” will also be a culinary celebration. “We decided to take 50 restaurants out of their premises and bring them under our structure,” explains Aymon Choisy. “You will find around fifty Geneva brands who will come and make their signature dish in different places.”
On Sunday, August 18, an introduction to racing behind the wheel of a soapbox will take place, allowing participants to hurtle down Avenue de France, slaloming between obstacles. “Around twenty ‘racers’ will be available to the public,” adds Frédéric Favre.
Paddle fans will dress up to cross the harbor on their boards, and acrobats will offer a show on the little wheel on the lake, while the big one in the English Garden will see seniors tell small groups their Geneva love story. The “Pipes and Drums of Geneva” will parade with their bagpipes and drums, bringing an air of Scotland to the Geneva quays.
Those nostalgic for the disco years will be invited, on the last day of the event, to take their roller skates out of their wardrobe and go to Quai Wilson, which will be transformed into a giant dance floor.
A sound and light show on the lake
The highlight of the event will be a sound and light show on the evenings of August 16 and 17. “There will be water, lasers and a pyrotechnic finale,” announces Frédéric Favre. “At the center of it all, there is a singer and an original composition of bells.”
“Genève Genève” is a party for everyone, from 5 to 105 years old, and it is completely free. “It’s an event that is self-financed by the Fêtes Genève association,” explains Émon Choisy. “The city helps us with everything related to public space, but everything else, it’s the Fêtes Genève association that invites you.”
With such a rich and diverse program, “Genève Genève” wants to mark the month with its festive imprint. “Come party with us,” concludes Léa. “This is a party that truly belongs to you.”
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