Fête de la Musique 2011: it’s time to celebrate..

The biggest music festival in France takes place today with an exciting lineup of free performances not to be missed

Today is Fête de la Musique, which means that a multitude of musicians will be playing everything from classical to jazz, rock to pop in bars, clubs and streets across France.

Famous for being one of the biggest music festivals in the world, the first Fête de la Musique was held in France in 1982 and it now occurs each summer in more than 100 countries around the globe.

It celebrates the midsummer's eve, also known as the summer solstice, which is the longest day of the year.

The idea of France holding an all night music festival was first suggested in 1976 by an American DJ Joel Cohen. It was then was adopted by the French Ministry of Culture in the 80s.

The government’s support along with media exposure and the growing participation of the French population meant that over the course of only a few years, it became one of the biggest cultural events in France.

Given the immediate success of the event, which encourages spontaneity and national celebration, the concept spread rapidly to other continents in the world like Africa and South America.

Concerts running on this day are often free and anyone who can play a musical instrument is encouraged to participate. On the Côte d'Azur, it is a famously great night, with tourists getting involved as well as locals.

Some must-see concerts include the World Dance show by Eliza Diaz from 7pm at the Musée des Arts Asiatiqes in Nice and there is the special ‘Street Party’ at Nice’s old port, which starts from 6pm and runs until midnight.

At 3pm this afternoon, the Médiatheque in Antibes will be hosting a folk concert by Hannah and In Extenso and in Cannes the Palais des Festivals et des Congress is holding a special Cuban concert by Interactivo from 8pm.

In Monaco, a group of Anglophone residents are using the special day to raise money for good causes by lunching a fundraising concert they hope will become an annual event.

Taking place at the Cabanon restaurant in Cap d'Ail, a number of acts have been lined up, with France's Star Academy finalist Pascal Mono headlining.

Already a sell out, the charities that will benefit from the event will include the UK’s NSPCC and Outward Bound Monaco, of which Prince Albert is patron. However you decide to spend the Fête de la Musique today just make sure that you don’t miss out.

Wander around the streets, soak up the atmosphere and let your ears feast on the array of melodies - it will be a remarkable experience.

rivieratimes.com