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Les Détours de Babel 2026 in Grenoble: the jazz and world music festival of Isère

Les Détours de Babel is a unique festival exploring intersections between jazz, world music and contemporary creation. Based at Théâtre Sainte-Marie d'en Bas in Grenoble, this event spans nearly a month from March to April, featuring 40 artists in demanding, curious programming. A gathering that spotlights musical creation in the Isère region.

The 2026 edition highlights artists like Arat Kilo, masters of ethio-jazz, and Mike Ladd for experimental hip-hop. The kora of Sona Jobarteh engages with the worlds of Bia Ferreira and Cesaria Evora Orchestra.

The festival stands out for its explorations between African oral traditions, free jazz and contemporary music. Ensembles like Calliopée and Kimya share space with electronic sounds and performing arts, in a uniquely French approach to artistic boundary-breaking.

Les Détours de Babel 2026 confirms its role as a musical laboratory in Grenoble. An essential festival for lovers of creative jazz and encounters between world cultures.