vBansko is preparing for the winter season — you are viewing an early version that is updated daily. Official start December 2026

Learn more
It is 27° in Bansko now. broken clouds
the Bansko Jazz Festival
● BANSKO · BULGARIA · EST. 1998 ●

Bansko,Jazz Festival

The most prestigious jazz forum in the Balkans

31 July — 9 August 2026
Nikola Vaptsarov Square · Bansko,
— Since 1998 —

History of the Festival

Born out of a deep passion for music and the vision of Dr Emil Iliev, the Bansko Jazz Festival has been transforming this small mountain town into an international jazz capital since 1998. What began as a modest local gathering has blossomed into one of the most prestigious musical events in the Balkans.

"Jazz is an impulse that bridges generations and cultures, and Bansko is where this impulse becomes an unforgettable celebration."

— Bansko Jazz Fest Organisers

Year after year, the stage at Nikola Vaptsarov Square draws global jazz legends—including Grammy winners, trailblazing innovators, and rising stars. The entire town comes alive with music, spanning from Jazz Alley to the Town Park, echoing through cosy cafes and spontaneous jam sessions.

Now celebrating its 29th edition with over 135 artists from 18 countries, the festival proves that Bansko is more than just a stage; it is a living spirit uniting people worldwide through the magic of jazz.

29
Editions
1998
Founded
18
Countries
10
Days of Music
1998Inaugural festival in Bansko
2004nternational acclaim – artists from 5 continents
201215th anniversary milestone edition
2019Record-breaking attendance – 50,000+ spectators
202629th anniversary edition – 31 July to 9 August
— Line-up & Programme —

Artists & Programme

📅
Music Calendar Discover all upcoming concerts and musical events in town. View Calendar →
🎉
All Festivals A comprehensive guide to all musical and cultural festivals in the region. View All →
🇺🇸
John Beasley
USA · Pianist · Grammy Winner
A visionary pianist with a unique style that seamlessly weaves together jazz, fusion, and world music
🇮🇱
Anat Cohen
Israel · Clarinet / Saxophone
A global jazz ambassador boasting 21 albums. Her magnetic stage presence captivates audiences worldwide.
🇺🇸
Catherine Russell
USA · Vocalist · Grammy Winner
Vocal perfection delivering jazz classics and original works. A key figure in contemporary jazz.
🇧🇬
Hristo Yotsov
Bulgaria · Big Band Project
An impressive line-up of outstanding Bulgarian musicians coming together for a grand big band project.)
🇫🇷
Sara Lecka
France · Vocalist
A voice carrying historical depth and raw intimacy—forging a new vocabulary for jazz storytelling.
🇺🇸
Emmet Cohen
USA · Pianist & Composer
One of the most exhilarating trio sounds in contemporary jazz—an absolute must-see experience.
🇧🇷
Mirla Riomar
Brazil Vocals / Percussion
Born in Salvador de Bahia, she brings the roots of Brazil into her music: rhythm, passion, and life.
🇸🇮
It's a shame.
Slovenia · Collective
A unique author's project by Rok Zalokar, crossing the boundaries of contemporary jazz.
🇦🇱
AJS Quartet
Albania · Jazz Quartet
The most popular jazz band from Albania. Together for 10 years — every concert is almost a new album.
🇮🇱
Michel Sahraoui
Israel Guitarist
The guitarist from Nazareth with a unique style, combining oriental melodies and modern jazz.
🇧🇬
CapriHorns
Bulgaria Brass Trio
An original program by three of the brightest names on the Bulgarian brass scene.
🇧🇬
Theodosius Spasov
Bulgaria Kaval
The world's kavaldist — playing on stages on all continents with a huge circle of fans.
— Festival Highlights —

Gallery & Memories Highlights

— Book Your Seat —

Tickets & Pricing

Day Pass
from 30
BGN / Evening
  • Access for 1 night
  • Front-of-house reserved seating
  • Free park access
Buy
VIP Package
from 260
BGN / 10 Days
  • VIP area with prime stage views
  • Artist Meet & Greet
  • All 10 evenings included
Buy
— Find Us —

Location & Directions

Pirin Street Todor Alexandrov Street Urban Park Nikola Vaptsarov Square N
  • 📍
    Address
    Nikola Yonkov Vaptsarov Square„
    Bansko, Blagoevgrad 2770, Bulgaria
  • 🚗
    Getting Here
    160 km from Sofia via the Thrace (Trakia) motorway and E79. Regular bus services from Sofia and Blagoevgrad.
  • 🕗
    Performance Times
    Evening concerts start at 20:30 daily.
    Daytime sessions from 11:00 at the Town Park.
  • 🌄
    Venue Locations
    Main Stage • Jazz Alley • Town Park • Cafe Jazz Sessions
— Get in Touch —

Contacts & Information

2026 Dates
31 July — 9 August 2026
Organiser
Dr. Emil Iliev
Follow us