Brussels Set to Swing as Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend Returns with Over 100 Free Performances
Brussels, The Gulf Observer: The Belgian capital is preparing for a spectacular weekend of rhythm, melody, and movement as the Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend makes its highly anticipated return from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25. The city-wide festival will once again transform Brussels into a vibrant stage, offering a diverse showcase of swing, soul, blues, hip-hop, and bebop – all completely free of charge.
Following a remarkable turnout last year with over 150,000 visitors attending more than 120 concerts, this year marks the eighth edition of the popular celebration of contemporary jazz. The festival will highlight over 100 renowned and emerging artists, with a special emphasis on Belgian talent and innovative music projects.
In collaboration with key cultural institutions such as Ancienne Belgique, Les Lundis d’Hortense, and Vaartkapoen, the 2025 line-up boasts an exciting roster of artists including VAAGUE, Early Life Forms, Adja, Francesco Turrisi Trio, Wajdi Riahi Trio, HYPERCONTENT!, Stéphane Galland & Jeroen Van Herzeele, and the Louis Matute Large Ensemble.
Celebrating Diversity Through Music
“The festival reflects perfectly Brussels’ identity: everybody is welcome to discover the amazing richness of our national jazz musicians,” said Steven Palmaers, founding director of the festival. “Musicians come to experiment on the Brussels scene as it offers enormous opportunities to enrich yourself musically.”
This year’s festivities will be centered around three main stages – Grand Place, Bourse, and Place Sainte-Catherine – each with its own musical identity. The Grand Place will host contemporary jazz acts; the Bourse stage will present ‘Jazz & Beyond’ performances; while Place Sainte-Catherine will spotlight the next generation of jazz artists and serve as the venue for the inaugural Brussels Jazz Vanguard awards.
The Brussels Jazz Vanguard initiative is designed to elevate emerging talent, with 15 acts selected from over 150 applicants through VI.BE, Court-Circuit, and the Royal Conservatoire of Brussels. A combination of professional jury and public votes will determine the winners, who will earn a place on the main stage at the 2026 edition of the festival.
In addition to the main venues, the festival will feature five busker stages and performances in 30 bars across the city, ensuring moments of musical discovery around every corner.
Salsa and Sunshine to Close the Weekend
The festival will conclude on a festive note with a lively salsa workshop at Place Sainte-Catherine on Sunday morning, accompanied by live performances from KCB, Charanga Bruselas, and Banda Bruselas – the perfect way to end a weekend of world-class jazz and community celebration.
With its inclusive atmosphere and electrifying line-up, the Lotto Brussels Jazz Weekend continues to solidify its place as one of Europe’s most beloved and accessible jazz festivals.
