Zadar Jazz & Blues is one of the flagship music programs within the Zadar Summer Theatre Festival, a cultural event that has enriched the city’s artistic life since 1995 through theatre, music, and dance performances held at historic open-air venues across Zadar. Established in 2015, the festival was created to present outstanding Croatian and international jazz and blues artists and has since become an essential part of the city’s summer cultural calendar.
Traditionally held in July, the festival takes place in the unique setting of the Museum of Ancient Glass, an intimate venue that provides audiences with a distinctive concert experience. The program embraces a broad spectrum of musical styles, ranging from traditional and contemporary jazz to blues, soul, funk, and crossover projects influenced by diverse musical traditions. This openness to different artistic approaches has helped establish the festival as a respected destination for jazz enthusiasts from Croatia and abroad.
Since its inception, Zadar Jazz & Blues has welcomed numerous internationally acclaimed musicians. Previous editions have featured artists such as Brian Auger, Trilok Gurtu, Fred Wesley, Eric Bibb, Omar Sosa, and Joseph Bowie, whose performances have significantly contributed to the festival’s growing international reputation. Each edition presents a carefully curated lineup that combines celebrated international performers with distinguished Croatian musicians, creating opportunities for artistic exchange between different generations and musical traditions.
Over the years, the festival has earned recognition for its high production standards and the close connection it creates between artists and audiences. The intimate concert setting encourages direct interaction, while the diverse programming attracts listeners with an interest in jazz, blues, and related genres. Alongside internationally renowned performers, the festival consistently supports local musicians by providing them with a prestigious platform to present their work alongside established global artists.
As an integral part of the Zadar Summer Theatre Festival, Zadar Jazz & Blues plays an important role in strengthening the cultural identity of the city while enhancing its international profile. By combining exceptional musical performances, a unique historical setting, and thoughtfully curated programming, the festival has established itself as one of Croatia’s leading summer jazz and blues events and a valued meeting place for artists and audiences alike.
