Where the Soul of Jazz Meets the Spirit of the Mediterranean
A warm evening breeze sweeping across the ancient streets of Tunis, the distant hum of saxophones echoing through the Roman ruins of Carthage, and the golden hues of sunset dancing on the Mediterranean Sea.
That’s the magic of the Med Jazz Festival 2026 — a celebration where music, culture, and history come together in perfect harmony.
Since its debut, this festival has transformed Tunis into a global hub for jazz lovers, attracting audiences from Europe, Africa, and beyond. Every year, it celebrates the soulful rhythms of the Mediterranean, connecting people through melody and emotion.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience world-class jazz under a North African sky, 2026 is your year to make it happen.
Med Jazz Festival 2026 – Dates, Location & Overview
- Event Name: Med Jazz Festival 2026
- Location: Tunis, Tunisia
- Expected Dates: May 15–21, 2026 (TBC)
- Venues: Acropolium of Carthage, Théâtre Municipal de Tunis, Ennejma Ezzahra Palace, and Carthage Amphitheatre
The festival’s charm lies in its fusion of sound and setting — each performance feels intimate yet grand, echoing through centuries-old architecture that adds an otherworldly beauty to every note.
Fun Fact: The Med Jazz Festival draws over 40,000 visitors annually, making it one of North Africa’s most anticipated cultural gatherings.
A Mediterranean Melting Pot of Music
Unlike most jazz events, Med Jazz doesn’t confine itself to one genre. It celebrates diversity — from smooth jazz to Afrobeat, from experimental fusion to traditional Andalusian melodies.
The Festival’s Musical Essence:
- Mediterranean-inspired jazz compositions
- Fusion of Arabic, African, and Latin influences
- Experimental collaborations between Tunisian and international artists
Expect performances that push boundaries, combining old-world charm with modern creativity.
Past Headliners & Global Icons
Over the years, the Med Jazz Festival has hosted an impressive lineup of jazz masters and emerging stars.
Legendary Artists Who Graced the Stage:
- Marcus Miller – Grammy-winning bassist and global jazz legend
- Dhafer Youssef – Tunisian oud maestro and fusion pioneer
- Esperanza Spalding – Jazz prodigy known for her ethereal voice
- Ibrahim Maalouf – Lebanese-French trumpeter blending Arabic scales and Western jazz
- Richard Bona – Cameroon’s iconic bassist and singer
- Rym Benatia & Tunis Jazz Ensemble – Local talents redefining North African jazz
What’s New in 2026?
Organizers have hinted at a bigger international lineup, featuring collaborations between European orchestras and African fusion bands, with a spotlight on female jazz artists and youth talent showcases.
Venues – Where History Echoes Through Music
The beauty of Med Jazz lies not just in the performances, but in where they happen.
1. Acropolium of Carthage
A breathtaking 19th-century church-turned-concert hall overlooking the sea. Its Gothic arches amplify the acoustics for an unforgettable listening experience.
2. Ennejma Ezzahra Palace
Once home to a French baron, this Moorish palace now serves as a museum of Arab music and hosts intimate night performances surrounded by jasmine gardens.
3. Théâtre Municipal de Tunis
The cultural heart of the city — a stunning Art Nouveau venue where legends and newcomers share the same stage.
4. Carthage Amphitheatre
A majestic Roman ruin transformed into a jazz arena under the stars. Imagine listening to a trumpet solo echo through 2,000-year-old stone walls. Pure magic.
Festival Highlights – More Than Just Jazz
1. Open-Air Jazz Nights
As the sun sets, the festival lights up Tunis’s skyline. These evening performances, often free to the public, attract massive crowds eager to sway under the stars.
2. Art Exhibitions & Cultural Installations
Local artists showcase jazz-inspired paintings, street murals, and sculptures across Carthage and La Marsa.
3. Workshops & Masterclasses
Musicians and students can attend sessions led by global artists, exploring improvisation, rhythm, and composition.
4. Jazz & Wine Soirées
Exclusive late-night sessions pair live jazz with Tunisian wines and fusion cuisine in rooftop lounges overlooking the Mediterranean.
A Taste of Tunisia – Culinary Notes of the Festival
Tunisian cuisine is as rich and diverse as its music. Festival-goers can savor everything from street food to gourmet dining.
Must-Try Local Delights:
- Couscous Royale – Spiced semolina with lamb and vegetables
- Brik à l’œuf – Crispy pastry with egg and tuna
- Ojja – Tomato and pepper stew with merguez sausage
- Mint Tea with Pine Nuts – A Tunisian ritual you can’t skip
During the festival, open-air markets in La Marsa and Sidi Bou Said serve local specialties — perfect for enjoying between performances.
Where to Stay – Best Hotels & Riads in Tunis
Whether you prefer 5-star luxury or cozy riads, Tunis has something for every traveler.
| Type | Recommendation | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | Mövenpick Hotel du Lac Tunis | Lake views, spa, near main venues |
| Boutique | La Villa Bleue Gammarth | Rooftop terrace with sea views |
| Cultural | Dar El Jeld Hotel & Spa | Located in the Medina, pure Tunisian charm |
| Budget | Hostel 7 | Affordable, youthful energy, walkable location |
Tip: Book at least 3 months in advance — festival week sees full occupancy across popular areas.
Check Also: Essaouira Gnaoua World Music Festival 2026 in Morocco
Tickets & Entry Information
- General Admission: €20–€50 per show
- Full Festival Pass: €200–€300
- Student Discount: 20–30% off regular tickets
- VIP Lounge Experience: €500 (includes backstage access and premium seating)
Tickets Available At: medjazzfest.com/tickets
Note: Some open-air shows are free, maintaining the festival’s inclusive spirit.
How to Reach Tunis for Med Jazz Festival 2026
By Air:
Fly into Tunis–Carthage International Airport (TUN) — connected to over 50 cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
By Train:
National rail lines connect Tunis with Sousse, Sfax, and Hammamet — ideal for pre- or post-festival trips.
By Car:
Scenic routes along the coast make road trips a delight. Car rentals are easily available at the airport.
Things to Do in Tunis Beyond the Festival
- Visit Carthage Ruins – Ancient Phoenician and Roman history by the sea.
- Explore the Medina of Tunis – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sidi Bou Said Village – Blue-and-white coastal gem perfect for photos.
- La Marsa Beach – Sunset views and seafood cafes.
FAQs – Med Jazz Festival 2026
Q1. When will the Med Jazz Festival 2026 take place?
A1. It’s expected in mid-May 2026; final dates will be confirmed soon.
Q2. What kind of music is featured?
A2. A fusion of traditional jazz, Mediterranean folk, Afrobeat, and world music.
Q3. Are there free performances?
A3. Yes, select outdoor shows and workshops are free to encourage cultural inclusivity.
Q4. Is it family-friendly?
A4. Absolutely — families, students, and travelers of all ages are welcome.
Q5. Can tourists easily get around Tunis?
A5. Yes, taxis, metro, and ride-sharing apps make travel easy and affordable.
Eventers – Let the Rhythm of the Mediterranean Move You
The Med Jazz Festival 2026 in Tunis is more than an event — it’s a symphony of cultures, a meeting of minds, and a celebration of life.
It blends North African passion, European sophistication, and Mediterranean warmth, creating an atmosphere where every note tells a story.
Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or a curious traveler, Tunis in May 2026 promises something magical — a reminder that music truly knows no borders.
So pack your bags, follow the rhythm, and let the Med Jazz Festival 2026 be your passport to a soulful Mediterranean adventure.
