Loulé Jazz Festival 2026 - 29th Edition
The historic Loulé Castle once again hosts three nights of international jazz from 25 to 27 July 2026. Under the artistic direction of Mário Laginha, the festival features names such as Kurt Rosenwinkel, Gerald Clayton and Eduardo Cardinho.
Loulé Jazz returns in 2026 for its 29th edition, consolidating its position as one of Portugal's most respected jazz festivals. From 25 to 27 July, the courtyard of Loulé Castle — with its medieval walls and the starry Algarve sky as a backdrop — hosts three nights of top-tier concerts under the artistic direction of pianist and composer Mário Laginha.
The programme opens on 25 July with the Daniel Herskedal Trio from Norway, together with Portuguese guitarist Afonso Pais, in an opening night that promises to merge Scandinavian tradition with Iberian sensibility. On 26 July, the highlight is a rare encounter between two giants of contemporary jazz: American guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel and pianist Gerald Clayton, in a musical dialogue marked by subtlety and artistic complicity.
The festival closes on 27 July with Eduardo Cardinho, one of the most remarkable vibraphonists of the new European jazz generation, who will present the project "Not Far From Paradise", exploring textures that combine jazz with electronic and cinematic elements.
Loulé Castle, a monument of Arab origin partially rebuilt in the 13th century, offers intimate acoustics and a truly unique experience — one of the few opportunities in Portugal to hear international jazz in an open-air historic setting. Before or after the concerts, take time to stroll through Loulé's historic centre, discover the Municipal Market (one of the country's finest examples of Neo-Arab architecture) and enjoy the local restaurants.
Tickets will be available at Casa da Cultura de Loulé and online. Arrive early as seating is limited.
