From the smoky bars of New Orleans to the grand open-air stages in Europe, jazz continues to be one of the world’s most powerful musical exports, often genre-defying, soul-stirring, and endlessly evolving. For decades, jazz festivals have drawn not just aficionados but also travellers seeking a deeper cultural rhythm. Here are 10 of the world’s biggest and most celebrated jazz festivals that truly hit all the right notes.

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival – USA

Of course, we’re kicking off the list with the birthplace of jazz. The New Orleans Jazz Fest is a jubilant celebration of culture, cuisine, and Creole roots. Over 500 acts span jazz, gospel, Cajun, and funk across 14 stages, with loads to do and discover. The music is electric, the food divine (yes, there’s gumbo and crawfish), and the atmosphere downright infectious.

When: Late April to early May
Vibe: Vibrant, festive, and unapologetically loud
Highlight: Local brass bands parading through the festival grounds in full regalia.

Cape Town International Jazz Festival – South Africa

Dubbed “Africa’s Grandest Gathering”, this two-day festival in the shadow of Table Mountain is a celebration of global and local jazz culture. From Afro-jazz to funk fusion, the event shines a spotlight on the continent’s distinctive voice in the genre, featuring world-class jazz performances, workshops, and cultural activities.

When: End April
Vibe: Powerful, rhythmic, culturally rich
Highlight: Emerging South African acts that steal the show.

Java Jazz Festival – Indonesia

Asia’s answer to Montreux, the Java Jazz Festival held in Jakarta is one of the largest jazz events in the southern hemisphere. With a dynamic mix of global greats and Indonesian talent, it’s a melting pot of styles that reflects the nation’s multicultural soul. In 2025, the festival will be celebrating 20 years of jazz music magic.

When: Late May to early June
Vibe: Youthful, diverse, high energy
Highlight: The late night sessions that often run into the early hours.

Montreux Jazz Festival – Switzerland

Perched on the shores of Lake Geneva with the Swiss Alps as a backdrop, Montreux is a pilgrimage. Since 1967, this iconic gathering has hosted legends from the likes of Miles Davis to Prince. While jazz remains at its core, Montreux embraces an eclectic spirit, comprising soul, blues, and rock. Expect lakeside stages, intimate jam sessions, and unforgettable collaborations.

When: Early July
Vibe: Sophisticated yet soulful
Highlight: The free outdoor music stages and the vinyl fair for rare finds.

Copenhagen Jazz Festival – Denmark

In Copenhagen, jazz takes centrestage by spilling into every alley, square, concert hall, and café. With over 1,000 concerts citywide, this open-format festival invites you to explore the city as much as the music, having welcomed over 260,000 visitors in 2024, featuring international artists and local talent. The Danish capital’s love affair with jazz is long-standing, and it really shows.

When: Early July
Vibe: Casual elegance, urban charm
Highlight: Afternoon sets at the botanical gardens.

North Sea Jazz Festival – The Netherlands

Hosted in the port city of Rotterdam, North Sea Jazz is one of Europe’s largest indoor festivals. It’s a meticulously curated fusion of heritage and innovation – where jazz legends like Herbie Hancock perform alongside contemporary icons like Kendrick Lamar. Across three days and 15 stages, expect everything from bebop to big band, avant-garde to afrobeat.

When: Mid-July
Vibe: Urban, experimental, groundbreaking
Highlight: The special themed nights – past editions have featured tributes to Nina Simone and John Coltrane.

Nice Jazz Festival – France

Set in the breezy French Riviera, Nice’s annual jazz festival, held annually since 1974, combines la dolce vita with musical finesse. One of Europe’s oldest jazz festivals, it has hosted the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Django Reinhardt. Today, it draws an international crowd for sunset performances in gardens and plazas.

When: Mid-July
Vibe: Sun-drenched glamour
Highlight: The stunning venue at Théâtre de Verdure, an open-air amphitheatre surrounded by palm trees.

Umbria Jazz Festival – Italy

Only a few things are more indulgent than jazz under an Italian summer sky with a glass of red in hand. Held in the medieval town of Perugia, Umbria Jazz brings together world-class music with Italy’s inimitable charm. With venues ranging from Roman theatres to cobbled piazzas, it’s an experience steeped in ambience.

When: Mid-July
Vibe: Romantic, atmospheric, slow paced
Highlight: The pop-up jazz parades winding through the streets.

Monterey Jazz Festival – USA

Launched in 1958, Monterey is the longest continuously running jazz festival in the world. Held in laid-back California style, the three-day affair offers a mix of everything, including legacy acts and boundary-pushing newcomers. It’s revered for its relaxed pace, ocean air, and community-driven feel.

When: End September
Vibe: Classic, intimate, heritage-driven
Highlight: The conversations and panels with musician which are often as insightful as the performances themselves.

Tokyo Jazz Festival – Japan

A sight to see in itself, this is an ultra-modern metropolis crossing paths with timeless tradition. Tokyo Jazz is where innovation thrives – pairing global stars with avant-garde Japanese ensembles. With its futuristic venues and seamless organisation, the festival reflects Japan’s refined approach to the arts and there’s plenty to look forward to.

When: Late September
Vibe: Sleek, curated, forward-looking
Highlight: The collaborations between Japanese and international artists, which often lead to genre-defying performances.

Featured image: Yunming Wang