The French Riviera is preparing to welcome a new international music event. In Roquefort-les-Pins, a charming village in the Provençal hinterland between the Mediterranean coast and the hills, Jazz aux Décades is born: a festival aiming to make jazz a powerful tool for cultural promotion and tourism development.

The first edition will take place on 8 and 9 August 2026 in the stunning setting of the Jardin des Décades, one of the town’s most important cultural landmarks for more than seventy years.

The ambition is clear: not simply to create a summer music event, but to establish a long-term festival capable of attracting jazz lovers from across Europe and strengthening the cultural identity of Roquefort-les-Pins.

Jazz aux Décades: a new international festival in the heart of Provence

The festival was created through a collaboration between the young mayor Ewan Corinaldesi and Alban Leloup and Thomas Layrac, founders of Altho Events and already behind the successful Peillon Jazz Festival.

The project is built around three key ideas: artistic excellence, local heritage promotion and audience engagement.

Through the universal language of jazz, Roquefort-les-Pins aims to establish itself as a new cultural destination in the French Riviera hinterland, offering visitors an experience combining music, landscapes and history.

Jardin des Décades: a historic cultural landmark

The choice of venue is highly symbolic. The Jardin des Décades takes its name from the historic “Décades de Provence”, cultural gatherings launched in 1948 that brought together philosophers, writers, artists and intellectuals in a unique exchange of ideas.

Over the decades, the garden has become one of the main cultural spaces in Roquefort-les-Pins, hosting concerts, theatre performances, cinema screenings, literary events and public celebrations.

It perfectly reflects the spirit of the new festival: creating a meeting point between artists, audiences and the local community.

Jazz aux Décades 2026: the programme and international artists

The first edition features a prestigious line-up showcasing some of the most exciting names in contemporary jazz.

Saturday 8 August 2026

The opening night will feature Israeli pianist Shai Maestro, recognised as one of the most innovative voices in contemporary jazz.

The stage will also welcome trumpeter Ludovic Louis, an internationally renowned musician known for collaborations with artists such as Quincy Jones and Lenny Kravitz, as well as for his unique blend of jazz, soul and contemporary influences.

Sunday 9 August 2026

The second evening will present French pianist Fred Nardin & Friends, with special guest appearances.

The festival finale will be performed by Italian saxophonist Stefano Di Battista, accompanied by a remarkable ensemble featuring André Ceccarelli, Matteo Cutello and Daniele Sorrentino.

A closing performance celebrating the richness of European jazz through some of its finest musicians.

Jazz and cinema: a week celebrating music and culture

The festival atmosphere will extend throughout the town. During Jazz aux Décades, the Le Pavillon Bleu Cinema will host a special programme dedicated to the legends of jazz history.

The audience will discover films, documentaries and biographies celebrating iconic figures such as Chet Baker, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone, creating a unique connection between cinema and music.

This cultural programme expands the festival beyond concerts, turning the entire town into a shared stage.

Roquefort-les-Pins: a summer filled with culture and entertainment

Jazz aux Décades will be the highlight of a particularly rich summer programme.

From July to September 2026, Roquefort-les-Pins will host concerts, outdoor cinema, dance performances, magic shows, astronomy events and initiatives celebrating local heritage.

Among the most anticipated events are:

• Festival Latino

• Danse sous les Pins
• Soirées Estivales
• Bal des Pompiers
• Night of the Stars
• Liberation Day celebrations
• Community Associations Forum
• European Heritage Days

A programme designed to bring together residents and visitors throughout the summer season.

Jazz as a new tourism asset for the French Riviera

With Jazz aux Décades, Roquefort-les-Pins chooses culture as a tool for development and territorial promotion.

The festival aims to become a recognised event on the European music scene, highlighting a destination that may be smaller than the famous coastal cities but offers authenticity, history and exceptional surroundings.

Between outstanding performances, Provençal charm and internationally acclaimed artists, Jazz aux Décades 2026 promises to become one of the most exciting cultural events of the summer on the French Riviera.