Feel the Rhythm of Budapest: JazzFest Budapest 2025
Experience the vibrant sounds and soulful melodies of world-class jazz at the fourth annual JazzFest Budapest, taking place from April 27 to May 14, 2025. This 18-day celebration of jazz music brings together 181 artists from 23 countries for 54 unforgettable concerts across various venues in Hungary’s captivating capital city.
International Jazz Stars
JazzFest Budapest 2025 features an impressive lineup of global jazz talents:
- Avishai Cohen: Experience the mesmerizing double bass virtuosity and unique blend of Middle Eastern and Andalusian influences on April 27 at the Erkel Theatre.
- Shai Maestro: Witness the innovative piano stylings of this Israeli jazz prodigy.
- Jojo Mayer: Don’t miss the Swiss drummer’s cutting-edge “Me/Machine” project.
- Dhafer Youssef: Immerse yourself in the fusion of traditional Arab melodies with modern jazz improvisation and electronic sounds.
- Rabih Abou-Khalil: Journey through the magical world of Middle Eastern-inspired jazz.
- Kinga Glyk: Marvel at the skills of this young Polish bass guitar sensation.
- Nduduzo Makhathini: Discover the unique blend of jazz and Zulu cultural heritage.
Tribute Concerts and Special Collaborations
- 30 Years of e.s.t. – Tribute to Esbjörn Svensson Trio: Celebrate the legacy of this influential Swedish jazz group.
- Antonio Farao, John Patitucci, and Gene Jackson Trio: Experience the synergy of these jazz masters.
- My Italian Heart: On April 29, witness a special tribute to the late piano virtuoso Chick Corea by Italian and Hungarian musicians at Premier KultCafé.
Unique Festival Experiences
Sunrise Concert
Start your JazzFest journey with a magical sunrise concert led by Bálint Gyémánt in the Philosophers’ Garden on April 27.
Best deals of Budapest
International Jazz Day Celebration
On April 30, join the worldwide celebration of International Jazz Day with free concerts throughout Budapest, showcasing the diversity of jazz music.
Cross-Genre Performances
- “The Dragon. Impostor. Volcano.”: Experience an innovative drama-concert featuring improvised text and music by Viktor Tóth, Gábor Weisz, Mihály Víg, Zsófi Kemény, Ádám Boncz, and Ágnes Márton.
- Eco Flight: Witness the world premiere of this unique performance combining theater, aerial acrobatics, live music, and visual art light painting.
Late-Night Jam Sessions
Join fellow jazz enthusiasts and visiting musicians for spontaneous late-night jam sessions at Jedermann Café.
Festival Finale
Mark your calendars for May 14, when the legendary Hungarian saxophonist Mihály Dresch closes the festival with a special “concert of love.” This grand finale will feature performances by Dresch’s three active ensembles – Dresch Quartet, Dresch Alternative Quartet, and Dresch String Quartet – along with surprise guest appearances and one-of-a-kind musical collaborations.
Practical Information
- Venues: Concerts will take place at various locations throughout Budapest, including the Erkel Theatre, Eiffel Art Studios, Fonó Buda Music House, and Premier KultCafé.
- Tickets: While some events are free, most concerts require tickets. Check the official JazzFest Budapest website for pricing and availability.
- Getting Around: Budapest’s excellent public transportation system makes it easy to navigate between venues. Consider purchasing a Budapest Card for unlimited travel and additional discounts.
Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of jazz in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. JazzFest Budapest 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience for music lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Book your tickets now and prepare for 18 days of world-class jazz in the heart of Hungary!