Gent Jazz 2026 (25th Anniversary Edition) – Ghent, Belgium
Overview
Gent Jazz 2026 marks the highly anticipated 25th-anniversary edition of one of Europe’s most beloved jazz gatherings. Held in the historic and tranquil setting of the Bijloke site, the festival has evolved from its 2002 debut into a major international landmark. The 2026 milestone will span over two weeks, featuring an expanded program that honors the festival’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of the genre. Known for its perfect acoustics and scenic “garden” atmosphere, Gent Jazz attracts over 50,000 visitors annually who come to witness a masterful blend of legendary icons and daring newcomers.
The anniversary lineup is set to be one of the most ambitious yet, with special tributes and exclusive collaborations headlining the Main Stage. From the traditional sounds of modern jazz pioneers to contemporary rock and soulful pop, the festival prides itself on being “open-minded” rather than strictly purist. Attendees can expect a multi-sensory experience that combines world-class musical performances with a high-end culinary offering in the festival garden. As Ghent is a UNESCO Creative City of Music, this 25th edition serves as a centerpiece of the city’s vibrant cultural identity, offering seventeen days of uninterrupted musical bliss.
Event Highlights
- 25th Anniversary Tributes: The festival opens with a grand tribute to Miles Davis and John Coltrane, featuring Terence Blanchard and Ravi Coltrane in a contemporary reimagining of “Birth of the Cool.”
- Exclusive Headliners: Global stars like Alabama Shakes and Marcus Miller are set to perform exclusive summer sets, bringing a mix of Grammy-winning rock, soul, and legendary bass-driven jazz.
- Garden and Main Stages: The festival features a dynamic dual-stage setup, offering at least seven concerts per day that range from large-scale tent performances to intimate outdoor “Garden Stage” discoveries.
- Creative City Immersion: Beyond the main site, the festival integrates with Ghent’s local jazz culture, featuring late-night jam sessions and collaborations with the historic HoGent music academy.
Why Attend
Gent Jazz is the ultimate destination for travelers who seek a sophisticated, relaxed, and high-quality festival experience without the overwhelming chaos of massive commercial events. The 25th-anniversary edition offers a rare opportunity to see world-class artists in an intimate “city-park” setting that emphasizes comfort and sonic perfection. It is a festival where you can transition seamlessly from a high-energy rock-soul performance by Alabama Shakes to a quiet, masterful piano solo under a canopy of historic trees.
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This event is ideal for seasoned jazz connoisseurs, curious music explorers, and tourists looking to enjoy the summer charm of one of Belgium’s most beautiful cities. The festival’s location allows you to spend your mornings exploring Ghent’s medieval architecture and canals before heading to the Bijloke for an evening of music. With its emphasis on sustainability, local gastronomy, and professional organization, Gent Jazz provides a refined cultural holiday that caters to a diverse, multi-generational audience.
Date & Duration
- Event Dates: July 2 to July 18, 2026.
- Total Duration: Seventeen days of continuous musical programming.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Ghent, Belgium.
- Venue: Muziekcentrum De Bijloke (Godshuizenlaan 2).
- Google Maps Address: Godshuizenlaan 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are sold online via the official Gent Jazz website and authorized ticketing partners like Ticketmaster.
- Admission Type: Day tickets provide access to all concerts on a specific date; combi-tickets are available for selected theme days (e.g., the Davis/Coltrane tributes).
- Ticket Pricing: Single-day tickets typically range from $65 to $115, while premium seated categories for headliner shows can reach $145.
- Minimum and Maximum Range: Prices start at approximately $65 for general admission and go up to $145 for the highest category seated tickets.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: Seating is divided into color-coded zones (Green, Yellow, Blue, Red); VIP packages are available including lounge access and inclusive catering.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@gentjazz.com
- Phone: +32 9 324 45 30
- Website: https://www.gentjazz.com/
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/gentjazz
- https://www.youtube.com/user/gentjazz
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/gent-jazz/
- https://www.instagram.com/gentjazz
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Brussels Airport (BRU) is the primary gateway, with a direct train link taking approximately 45 minutes to Ghent.
- Public Transport: Take the train to Gent-Sint-Pieters station; from there, it is a 10-minute walk or a short ride on Tram 1 or 3 to the Bijloke site (~$3).
- Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis from Gent-Sint-Pieters station to the festival take about 10 minutes and cost approximately $18-$22.
- Parking: Limited on-site parking; it is recommended to use “Park & Ride” lots on the outskirts or city center garages like Gent Zuid (~$25/day).
- Other Access: Ghent is a bicycle-friendly city; the festival site features large, free bike parking areas for local attendees.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: 1898 The Post (5-star, 1.2 km, located in a stunning historic post office, ~$380-600 per night); Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof (4-star superior, 0.9 km, elegant luxury with a spa, ~$250-450 per night).
- Mid-Range Options: Ghent Marriott Hotel (4-star, 1.3 km, iconic location on the Graslei canal, ~$180-280 per night); Novotel Gent Centrum (3-star superior, 1.1 km, central with modern amenities, ~$150-230 per night).
- Budget Stays: Ibis Gent Centrum Opera (3-star, 0.8 km, efficient and close to the venue, ~$100-160 per night); Treck Hostel (Unique hostel, 2.5 km, indoor camping theme, ~$45-90 per night).
Reviews
- The atmosphere at the Bijloke is magical; sitting in the grass with a glass of wine while world-class jazz plays is the highlight of my summer.
- It is one of the few festivals where the sound quality in the tent is actually better than most indoor concert halls I have visited.
- I loved that I could walk from the medieval city center straight into a world-class jazz festival in under fifteen minutes.
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FAQ's
How do I travel to Ghent from Brussels Airport?
The easiest way is to take the direct train from the airport station (Zaventem) to Gent-Sint-Pieters station. Trains run frequently throughout the day and the journey takes about 45 minutes, with tickets costing around $20. Once you arrive at the station, the festival site at De Bijloke is just a short 10-minute walk or a quick tram ride away.
Are the seats for the concerts numbered?
No, seats at Gent Jazz are generally not numbered, and you choose your specific chair upon arrival within your ticketed zone. When you enter, you will receive a wristband that matches the color of the category you purchased (e.g., Green or Yellow). It is recommended to arrive early for popular headliner sets to ensure you get the best possible view within your designated section.
Is the festival accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, Gent Jazz is fully accessible for wheelchair users, with dedicated viewing platforms and accessible restroom facilities on-site. The organization also provides an assistive hearing loop for those with hearing impairments in the main concert tent. If you require specific assistance, it is best to contact the festival team in advance via email to ensure a seamless experience.
What is the policy on food and drinks?
Outside food and beverages are not allowed on the festival grounds, as there is an extensive selection of high-quality catering available. The festival features a "Garden" area with diverse food stalls serving everything from local Belgian specialties to international finger food. Gent Jazz is a cashless festival, so you will need to pay for all refreshments using a debit/credit card or a digital payment app.
Can children attend Gent Jazz?
The festival is very family-friendly, and children up to 3 years old can enter for free if they sit on a parent's lap during seated shows. For children over the age of 3, a standard ticket is required, though there are often specific workshops or daytime activities for younger fans. Please note that professional ear protection is highly recommended for children, and the festival often provides some on-site.
