Aarhus International Jazz Festival

The Aarhus Jazz Festival is a highly anticipated annual event in Aarhus, Denmark, that spans eight days, usually taking place in July, August, or September. The city comes alive with music as various venues, including the Aarhus Concert Hall, host concerts. Many of these performances are free and take place outdoors, contributing to a vibrant and accessible celebration for everyone.

Since its inception in 1988, the festival has served as a platform for both local musicians and international jazz legends like Stan Getz, Dizzy Gillespie, and Herbie Hancock. Over the years, it has blossomed into a grand affair, showcasing hundreds of concerts across multiple venues. In recognition of its excellence, the festival was awarded the European Effe Label in 2017-2018.

The Aarhus Jazz Festival is not just about traditional jazz; it embraces a variety of musical styles influenced by jazz, including blues and world music. Renowned graphic designer Finn Nygaard has been instrumental in crafting the festival's visual identity, creating award-winning posters that capture its essence.

The festival has continually evolved, celebrating diverse themes such as European jazz, women in jazz, and the rich history of jazz music in Aarhus. The 2019 edition was particularly special, marking 100 years of jazz in the city.