Bergen International Festival was founded in 1953 and has focused on presenting prominent international and Norwegian artists in the fields of music, ballet, opera, theatre, dance and the performing arts. The Festival, which is the principal event of its kind in Norway, takes place every year over 15 days at the end of May and presents over 150 events. The festival is a member of the European Festivals Association. His Majesty Kind Harald V is the festival's Royal patron. The music of Edvard Grieg (1843 - 1907) performed at his home, Troldhaugen, has from the outset been an important part of the festival.

Visitors and ticket sales:
Ticket prices range from EUR 13,50 - 57,00

Arts Representation:
Classical, including contemporary, music; opera; chamber music; recitals; dance; theatre; outdoor events and street performance.
Fringe events include : Children's festival; Music Factory (contemporary music); jazz festival; festival exhibition; literary festival.

Festival Venues:
Grieg Hall (1500 seats); Logen chamber music hall (re-inaugurated 1997) (500); Håkon's Hall (King's Hall from 12th century) (430); Bergen National Theatre (three theatre halls)
(80-450); Dance Theatre (300); St John's Church (900); other medieval churches in Bergen; Troldsalen (200); the villa at Troldhaugen, composer Edvard Grieg's home (60); violinist Ole Bull's (1810-1880) home, Lysøen (90); composer Harald Sæverud's (1897-1992) home, Siljustøl (60); performances at other theatres in Bergen and outdoor events around the city centre.

- Under the patronage of His Majesty King Harald V of Norway
- Member of European Festivals Association
- Established 1953