Cultural Summer in the Alpes-Maritimes: Over 450 Free Events in 157 Municipalities

From June 27 to August 31, 2025, the Alpes-Maritimes transform into a vast open-air stage thanks to the 30th edition of the Soirées Estivales, the much-anticipated summer cultural event promoted by the Department. More than 450 free performances will take place across 157 municipalities, offering a rich program ranging from music to theater, dance, and various other performances.

Charles Ange Ginésy, President of the Department, emphasized the initiative’s importance: “Culture has always been a key part of summer in the Alpes-Maritimes. A free, high-quality program that makes art accessible to all, rooted in a tradition born in 1995 thanks to Charles Ginésy and Alain Frère.”

Thirty Years of Art and Local Talent
This event celebrates three decades of success, focusing on an eclectic and high-level offering, with a strong emphasis on local talent: 99% of the artists involved come from the region. Over 1,500 artists and technicians will bring performances to squares, small towns, and mountain areas, making culture a widespread and inclusive experience.

Three Festivals Not to Miss
The summer of 2025 also offers three special events that enrich the calendar:

• Festival des Mots: ten actors bring to life great literary texts on the theme of water and the ocean, in tribute to the UN Ocean Conference. A poetic journey through Shakespeare, Giono, Kersauson, Sagan, and others.

• Les Folies des Lacs: on July 20 at Lake de la Colmiane, in the heart of Mercantour, the “Pique-nique des Frenchy” returns with live music (including singer Nicoline from The Voice), animations, and DJ sets in a relaxed, family atmosphere.

• Jazz Art Lympia: every Thursday evening from July 17 to August 28, the Espacio Lympia in Nice turns into an open-air jazz club with views of the harbor and spectacular sunsets.

Widespread and Accessible Culture
Museums, exhibitions, and shows are designed to engage a diverse audience and reach every corner of the territory, confirming culture as a social and economic driver in the Alpes-Maritimes. Special tribute to Alain Frère, founder of the Soirées Estivales, whose passion gave life to this great popular cultural celebration.

Full information and the complete program are available on the official website: soirees-estivales.departement06.fr