What a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of summer than with music! In France it’s a tradition that started almost 40 years ago in 1982 initiated by Jack Lang Cultural Minister and it’s called La Fête de la Musique! It takes place on June 21st the summer solstice, which happens to be the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere. It all started as a day of informal, spontaneous music everywhere on the street corners, cafés, restaurants, train stations, rooftops etc… A day and celebration of music of all genres where everyone, young and old can participate and join in as an amateur or professional. Just grab your musical instrument!

Today La Fête de la Musique has become a global event called Make Music Day in over 1,200 cities and 120 countries around the world. Find your city here! In the U.S from Alabama to Wisconsin, this French National Holiday is celebrated globally with free and open to the public music festival where bands play on center stage and side stages all around the outdoor venue often sponsored by the French Alliances of the city and the French Cultural Embassy and consulates.