The diverse programme, which forms part of the Malta Jazz Festival, features free activities and events such as open-air concerts, master classes, intimate jazz performances and jazz contests. Popular jazz musicians perform at several music venues around the island such as restaurants and bars.

The Fringe festival also boasts the Malta Jazz Contest in which six local jazz soloists compete against each other for the opportunity to participate in the next edition of the Malta Jazz Festival. The festival also includes master classes held at the Euro Institute for Music in Hamrun which are part of the Malta Summer Jazz Camp.

Jazz on the Fringe, the Malta Jazz Contest and the Malta Jazz Camp form part of the Maltese Jazz Festival and are a Valletta 2018 collaboration with the Malta Jazz Festival.