Dub Camp in Joue-sur-Erdre cancelled: Heatwave forces organisers and prefecture to call off event

Joue-sur-Erdre – 09.07.2026: The Dub Camp Festival, which was due to take place from 10 to 12 July 2026 at Lac de Vioreau, has been cancelled at short notice. The decision was made jointly by the organisers and the Loire-Atlantique prefecture in view of the ongoing heatwave and the associated health risks for visitors. Authorities consider the situation serious in parts of the department; up to 10,000 people per day had been expected for the multi-day open-air event.

According to the festival management, all required permits had been obtained. However, following a renewed risk assessment, the authorities decided against allowing the event to go ahead. The decisive factors were said to be the exceptional heat exposure across the extensive site and the already heavy demand on firefighters, emergency services and hospitals in the region. The cancellation is intended to prevent further strain on medical capacity and an increase in heat-related emergencies.

The organisers said on the festival website that the decision had been made “with a heavy heart”. They asked ticket holders for patience; information on refunds and possible rebooking options is expected to follow shortly. Visitors who have already arranged travel or accommodation are asked to check their bookings and keep informed through the official channels of the festival and the prefecture.

The prefecture had previously activated special measures to ensure public safety during the heatwave. These include official recommendations to reduce large gatherings, protect vulnerable groups and maintain the operational capacity of emergency services. Organisers and municipalities were urged to mitigate risks through adjusted opening hours, shaded and water areas, and medical assistance points – in the case of Dub Camp, this was not sufficient in the authorities’ assessment.

The festival is considered an established fixture in the reggae and dub scene in western France and usually brings international artists, sound systems and specialist vendors to the lake north of Nantes. The cancellation also affects local suppliers, restaurants and accommodation providers, which traditionally rely on festival revenue during the summer months. Transport operators had previously announced additional services; travellers should check timetables and any cancellation conditions.

In view of the heatwave, health authorities are reminding people of basic precautions: drink plenty of water, avoid physical exertion in the heat, look out for children, older people and those with pre-existing conditions, and seek medical help immediately if symptoms such as dizziness, nausea or confusion occur. For current advice, the prefecture and emergency services refer people to their websites and social media channels.