The Nice Jazz Fest (formerly the Nice Jazz Festival) is the oldest jazz festival in the world, first held in February 1948 on the French Riviera. Since 2024, the event has been held annually in July (with the 2025 edition running from July 24–27 and the 2026 edition scheduled for July 23–26) and is recognized as the first jazz festival of international significance.

Historical Evolution and Venues Following an inaugural 1948 edition headlined by Louis Armstrong, the festival experienced a 23-year hiatus before returning in 1971 and then being re-established as the La Grande Parade du Jazz in 1974. From 1974 to 2010, the festival took place in the Roman ruins of Cimiez, but since 2011, it has moved to the central Place Masséna and the Théâtre de Verdure in the Jardin Albert Ier to attract larger crowds.

Programming and Atmosphere The festival features an eclectic mix of traditional jazz, world music, pop, hip-hop, and soul, with 28 concerts typically spread over four evenings across two stages. Since 2024, the lineup has included major international acts such as Goldlink, RAYE, -M-, Phoenix, and John Scofield, alongside jazz legends, creating a family-friendly atmosphere with a festive village and affordable ticket options (e.g., €35 for a single evening pass).