Jazz à Juan

Europe's first open-air jazz festival since 1960

The Jazz à Juan festival was born on July 7, 1960, on the initiative of Jacques Souplet and Jacques Hebey, in homage to Sidney Bechet, who had celebrated his wedding in Juan-les-Pins in 1951. Originally named "Festival International de Jazz d'Antibes Juan-les-Pins," it established itself as Europe's first open-air jazz festival, a precursor to a format that would revolutionize live music. The first edition was held simultaneously at the Fort Carré Stadium in Antibes and at the Pinède Gould in Juan-les-Pins, which became the festival's favorite venue from the concert on July 10, 1960.

A jazz pantheon under the umbrella pines

Over the years, Jazz à Juan has hosted the greatest jazz legends: Charlie Mingus in 1960, Ray Charles and Count Basie in 1961, Fats Domino and Dizzy Gillespie in 1962, Miles Davis and Sarah Vaughan in 1963. The list of artists who have graced the Pinède Gould stage constitutes a true pantheon of world jazz: Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Oscar Peterson, B.B. King, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and many others. Numerous legendary live albums have been recorded there.

Pinède Gould, an exceptional natural setting

The Pinède Gould offers a unique setting for a music festival: an open-air stage nestled under centuries-old umbrella pines, a few meters from the Mediterranean. The natural acoustics of the place, the mild summer evenings, and the intimacy of this 3,000-seat green theater create an incomparable atmosphere, conducive to moments of musical grace. Concerts begin each evening at 8:30 PM in this enchanting ambiance.

2024 and 2025 Editions: Between Heritage and Modernity

The 2024 edition (63rd), from July 8 to 18, brought together Manu Katché, Toto, Selah Sue, and Dominique Fils-Aimé for a program blending jazz, pop, and world music. The 2025 edition (64th), from July 10 to 20, marked a strong comeback with AIR, Dianne Reeves, Jamie Cullum, Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, Gregory Porter, Herbie Hancock, Robert Plant Presents Saving Grace, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Ayo. Jammin' Juan, the professional arm of the festival, completes the program with showcases and meetings.

A major festival on the Côte d'Azur

Supported by the City of Antibes Juan-les-Pins, Jazz à Juan is part of the rich jazz tradition of the Côte d'Azur and remains one of the most prestigious jazz festivals in the world. Its international reach, exceptional history, and the magic of the Pinède Gould make it a must-attend event for jazz and live music lovers.