Aurillac Riots: Violence and Amazement After Festival
Violence Erupts at Aurillac Street Theater Festival
Published August 22, 2025
A night of Unexpected Violence
The International Street Theater Festival in Aurillac, France, was marred by unexpected violence on Wednesday evening, leaving eight police officers injured and shocking attendees. What began as a celebration of performing arts quickly descended into chaos, with reports of stone-throwing and barricades erected in the streets. The events unfolded rapidly, transforming a festive atmosphere into one of unrest and alarm, as described by witnesses who found themselves “in the middle of a row battle” (The Mountain).
Details of the Clashes
According to reports, the violence began with stone-throwing, escalating to the construction of barricades. Eight police officers sustained injuries during the clashes (France Info). Witnesses described the situation as spiraling out of control within minutes (Libération). The incident has been described as “pure violence” (