Zone 61

Zone 61 is an urban culture organization based in Alençon, in the Orne region of France, bringing together people interested in hip-hop and creative urban practices. Its year-round program includes classes in breaking, Newstyle dance, parkour, scooter and skate activities, DJing, and graffiti, alongside workshops, short courses, and birthday packages. The organization also offers activities for individuals, families, and groups, including video and studio sessions, graffiti walks by bike or kayak, concerts, and event planning.

Zone 61 organizes battles throughout the year, including WIBA, an international competition that has been running for more than a decade and features qualifying events around the world. Its annual Festival of Urban Cultures spans a month, with workshops, graffiti events, open mics, conferences, and the festival’s closing WIBA event. Zone 61 also provides cultural stays, helps participants find suitable urban activity locations, and hosts talks on hip-hop culture and social issues. Its Alençon facilities include a dance room, studio, small parkour area, and chill space.