Discover the Cosmojazz Festival in Chamonix from 22 to 30 July 2017 with Collineige!

We have your need-to-know planning guide on how to get to, and how to make the most of, the biggest local music event on our Summer social calendar. Born in the Summer of 2010 the Cosmojazz festival aims to share incredible landscapes, amazing adventures, cosmic sounds and mystical musical memories, all with the smallest carbon footprint possible.

There are not many festivals in the world where most attendees are there as much for the atmosphere as for the artists. Cosmojazz is certainly in this category and prides itself on being a free festival open to anyone who can reach their often lofty locations such as: the Loriaz refuge, the Mer de Glace, Le Charamillon at Le Tour and the mid station at Grands Montets. 

There are also a number of gigs in Chamonix itself, in Parc Couttet, located in the heart of Chamonix. Here there will be a large covered stage where, even if it rains, “the show must go on!”.

You’ll notice that the Maison des Artistes in the town centre, is hosting a number of nightly jam sessions, and is central to the Cozmojazz experience. Every evening, from 10 pm, the Maison des Artistes welcomes the artists to mix with local talent for a night of extraordinary encounters with extraordinary people.

It’s no secret that one very talented musician is behind both projects (Cosmojazz & Maison des Artistes): André Manoukian
Amoung Manoukian’s career achievements is his role as a judge in the French version of American Idol, and although born and raised in Lyon he is a passionate Chamoniard.

Fringe concerts and pop-up performances will also take place at various  locations in Chamonix, from cable cars to high-wires. Some have been programmed and others will occur spontaneously, this is the excitement of Cosmojazz! Keep a look out for the ‘Floating Piano Show’ set to pop up at Lac Des Gaillands

To get a taste of the festival take a look at this video.
 

Top Tips:

What to see

We recommend you get installed in Chamonix and take it day by day depending on the weather and your motivation!  Here are some handy daily guides to download.

How to budget

The concerts are free to attend, although if you don't fancy hiking up to some of them, you'll need to buy lift passes for the concerts at altitude. Our Collineige staff can deliver them to you at check-in!

How to get there

You may also want to take a look at the Chamonix bus and train timetables to help you get to each location. Up to date timetables are provided in each of our properties but we also recommend you download the Chamonix App as a great way to stay up to date.
In case of bad weather the concerts will be moved indoors - keep an eye on the CosmoJazz facebook page for updates. 

How to dress

The weather is sometimes unpredictable at high altitudes, this includes Chamonix itself, where the weather can change quickly. Always pack warm and waterproof clothing in case storm clouds roll in, and be sure you have good shoes! It is also strongly recommended by the festival organisers that you bring sunglasses, hats and sunscreen.

How to behave

This festival of Jazz and World music attracts an older, intellectual crowd who are concerned by the environmental footprint of their lives and the event. When attending the high altitude shows, do not tarnish the natural environment with rubbish. Recycling bins will be set up at all concert sites for the management and sorting of waste. Event goers are also expected to stay relatively sober for their own safety.