Bansko Jazz Festival Special

One of Europe’s most celebrated jazz festivals returns this summer as the Bansko Jazz Festival takes place from 31 July to 9 August 2026, bringing ten days of world-class music to the picturesque mountain town of Bansko, Bulgaria.

More than just a concert series, the Bansko Jazz Festival transforms the entire town into a celebration of jazz, with performances, masterclasses, exhibitions, discussions and late-night jam sessions creating a unique atmosphere from morning until well after midnight. It has become one of Europe’s premier jazz destinations, attracting thousands of music lovers from across the globe every summer.

This year’s festival features an outstanding international line-up, including jazz fusion legend Billy Cobham, acclaimed vocalist Morgan James, Grammy Award-winning British saxophonist Tim Garland, Chico Freeman, Antonio Faraò, Mordi Ferber, and the innovative Avishai Cohen & Big Vicious, alongside many of Bulgaria’s finest jazz musicians.

Ahead of the festival, Ruth Fisher sits down with Svetoslav Nikolov, Programme Director of Jazz FM in Bulgaria, for an exclusive conversation about the story behind Bansko Jazz Festival. From booking world-class artists and nurturing emerging talent to creating the unique atmosphere that has made Bansko one of Europe’s most loved jazz festivals, it’s a fascinating insight into what makes this remarkable event so special. Listen to the interview on One Jazz.

Ruth will also be at the festival throughout its ten-day run, interviewing many of the visiting artists and hosting from the Main Stage each evening, bringing listeners exclusive conversations and behind-the-scenes insights from one of Europe’s most exciting jazz festivals.