Every year in May, the historic city of Saint-Louis, Senegal transforms into Africa’s jazz capital, hosting one of the continent’s most prestigious festivals. Since 1993, the Saint-Louis International Jazz Festival has attracted the biggest names in international jazz, numerous young African prodigies, and a cosmopolitan audience, all set within a UNESCO World Heritage–listed backdrop.

Between concerts on the main stage, jam sessions in bars, festive atmospheres, and cruises along the Senegal River, this event embodies sharing and communion through music.

History of the Festival

The festival was created by local enthusiasts, supported by the Senegalese government, the French Cultural Center, and international partners, to boost cultural life and tourism in Saint-Louis. After two local editions in 1991 and 1992, the festival officially became international in 1993 with prestigious guests such as Roy Haynes and Archie Shepp. Since then, it has continued to grow, inheriting the jazz introduced to Senegal by American soldiers during World War II.
Eclectic programming, logistical support from the state (notably under President Abdou Diouf), and strong local roots have helped nurture legends like Manu Dibango, Lucky Peterson, and Richard Bona, alongside African stars and young talent from across the continent.

An open and Festive program

Each year, the festival offers:

• Main concerts on the principal stage.
• Jam sessions and Off shows in bars, cafés, hotels, and public spaces in the historic center.
• Workshops, masterclasses, lectures, and exhibitions of jazz posters and photography. Jazz in all its forms (traditional, modern, fusion) blends with African music, funk, blues, afrobeat, salsa, and reggae, creating a festival accessible to all ages and tastes.

Saint-Louis on stage

With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, legendary hotels, and the famous Faidherbe Bridge, renamed Baya Ndar, Saint-Louis becomes an open-air “museum city” for a few days.
Concerts and activities blend seamlessly with the cityscape, giving the festival a unique identity – from grand shows in the central square to intimate performances in small venues where artists are often spotted off-stage.

An international and committed Festival

• Showcase of African jazz: young Senegalese and African bands gain exposure.
• Platform for exchange: foreign artists mingle with local musicians, amateurs, journalists, and professionals.
• Economic and tourist impact: fully booked hotels, energized shops and restaurants, placing Saint-Louis back on the map as a major cultural city.
• Universal language: music unites festival-goers, residents, and artists, welcoming people from all horizons.

Anecdotes and highlights

• From the first international edition in 1993, Baya Ndar Square became the most sought-after open-air stage in West Africa, attracting hundreds of spectators.
• President Diouf provided a presidential plane to transport artists, technicians, and equipment, ensuring top stars attended in the early years.
• Memorable moments include Gilberto Gil singing under the stars, Manu Dibango improvising with young Senegalese musicians, and jam sessions lasting until dawn in historic city hotels.
• The city plans to institutionalize the festival at the municipal level to secure its future and establish it as a recognized cultural landmark for new generations.

What to do during the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival?

• Attend concerts on the main stage.
• Join a jam session in a bar or colonial hotel.
• Explore UNESCO-listed heritage sites: historic houses, markets, and the Baya Ndar Bridge.
• Taste typical fish and seafood and enjoy local cuisine.
• Visit the Langue de Barbarie and observe birds in the Djoudj National Park.
• Meet artists, volunteers, and jazz enthusiasts in a unique atmosphere.

Practical information

• When? Every May, over 5–7 days.
• Where? Saint-Louis (270 km from Dakar, 4–5 hours by car), main stage at Faidherbe/Baya Square, partner venues.
• Accommodation: Hotels and inns, but booking is essential due to high festival attendance.
• Tips: Book tickets in advance and plan several days to explore the city and surroundings.
• Access: Bus, private car, and various transport options from Dakar.