Montreux Jazz Festival
Once a year this idyllic hideaway at the lake Geneva turns into a musical frenzy.
Founded in 1967, the Montreux Jazz festival initially featured exclusively jazz artists.
Today, artists ranging from Pop to Rock perform at this annual festival. This year’s must see concerts include Stevie Wonder, Chris Rea or Pharell Williams. If you aren’t up for an indoor concert in the Stravinski Auditorium join one of the boats and indulge in great music while cruising the lake. The music attracts visitors from all over the world and offers a great international vibe and relaxed and artistic atmosphere. Those who didn’t score a concert ticket can enjoy the lively atmosphere and countless free concerts at the lake.
Best Pavillon: The Nestle Pavillion is a great place for a sundowner prior to a concert.
What to wear:
For the girls: Think upscale hippie – a maxi flower dress and a benjy, topped with a chanel shoulder bag. The festival is pretty big so toss those heals and opt for espadrilles or flat ballerinas instead
For the guys: a cool denim paired with a casual shirt and comfortable loafers is a safe bet.
BUT don’t exaggerate – this is not the Coachella Festival. While its all very casual don’t get too wild if you don’t want to earn some odd looks – this is still Switzerland after all and the Montreux festival can best be described as one of the more dignified jazz festivals out there.
When: 4 July – 19th of July
Where: Montreux