Now preparing for its 31st edition, the festival will take place from 7–11 October 2025. Since its founding in 1995, Jazz Goes to Town has earned a reputation for presenting a rich spectrum of jazz — from traditional styles through bebop, fusion, avant-garde, to experimental approaches — with a strong emphasis on European jazz and creative music.

A festival inspired by nature and the harvest of sound

This year’s theme draws on the natural cycle of growth and harvest, beautifully symbolizing the process of creating music — from an initial idea to its final artistic expression. As the organizers put it: like plants, music requires care and attention to flourish. They invite audiences to “smell and taste” this “fresh, juicy, and wonderfully sounding” harvest.

Diverse venues and vibrant atmosphere

The festival program typically unfolds across various venues in Hradec Králové, including cinema Bio Central, Studio Beseda, the city library, galleries, restaurants, the main city square, and even repurposed industrial spaces. This diversity offers visitors the chance to experience jazz in settings ranging from formal concert halls to relaxed cafés and outdoor performances.

Beyond concerts, the festival also features talks, workshops, and side events that foster artistic exchange and deeper appreciation of jazz. Occasionally, smaller concerts and discussions are organized in Prague ahead of the main festival dates.

A long-standing tradition of connecting artists and audiences

Over more than three decades, Jazz Goes to Town has played a vital role in developing and broadening the understanding of jazz in the Czech Republic. Each year brings a fresh focus reflected in its programming: in 2024, the festival celebrated its 30th anniversary with specially themed evenings, while the 2025 edition will center on the symbolism of nature and the “harvest of sound.”

An invitation to Slovenian artists and organizers

Given its strong international dimension and focus on fostering collaboration across Europe, Jazz Goes to Town represents a valuable opportunity for Slovenian jazz musicians and event organizers.

If you are a Slovenian jazz artist, promoter, or festival organizer interested in performing, collaborating, or simply exploring future partnerships with Jazz Goes to Town, please get in touch. They would be glad to help connect you with the festival team or provide more details.