[Les Grands Sites d’Occitanie] Marciac, in the Gers, the jazziest town in the region

Gateway to our cultural and natural heritage, 41 places are labeled “Grands Sites Occitanie”. They highlight the splendor of the region and allow each visitor to discover remarkable and exceptional sites. Le Journal Toulousain takes you to Marciac, in the Gers.

Nestled in the heart of Gers, Marciac is the capital of jazz in Occitania. Renowned for its world-famous “Jazz in Marciac” festival, this charming bastide combines historical heritage, gentle living and gastronomic pleasures. If you are passing through this summer, let yourself be tempted by this unmissable destination, starting with its emblematic event, which returns every year in July and August.

Marciac and his love for Jazz

The Jazz in Marciac festival, created in 1978, is an unmissable event for music lovers in Occitanie. Every summer, it welcomes internationally renowned artists, such as Wynton Marsalis, Norah Jones and Ibrahim Maalouf. For two weeks, the city is transformed into a giant stage, between concerts under its big top and spontaneous performances in the lively streets of the “Festival Off”.

Moreover, in 2025, the festival returns for its 47th^e edition, from July 21 to August 7. The headliners are revealed little by little. We already know that festival-goers will be able to come listen to Santana, Ben Harper or even Robert Plant. Find all the information about the festival on the event website.

After Jazz: the flavors of the Occitanie region

Marciac also seduces with its gastronomy. Between foie gras, duck breast, confits and Gascon pastis, the local specialties will delight your taste buds. Just as wine lovers will not be left out with the wines of the AOC Saint-Mont and Madiran, perfect to accompany these exceptional dishes. Moreover, from the end of October to January, don't miss the Flamme de l'Armagnac, a warm celebration around the distillation of this emblematic eau-de-vie of the city.

A bastide to discover

Besides, do you really know the city? Founded in the 12th^e century, it retains all the charm of the Gascon bastides. If you feel like it, you can start your visit on the central square, decorated with elegant arcades and large terraces where you can relax. Stroll through the geometric streets and admire its monuments: the bell tower of the Notre-Dame church, the spire of the old chapel of the Augustinian convent and the painted portal, a remarkable example of southern Gothic.

Walks around Marciac

Finally, after discovering the city, listening to music, eating and drinking, perhaps you would be up for a little digestive walk? The surroundings of Marciac offer superb walking opportunities, particularly in the Adour valley. Cycling or hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the routes leading to the surrounding vineyards and landscapes. Among the local treasures, the Sarragachies vineyard, classified as a Historic Monument, stands out for its 21 rare and ancient grape varieties.