Umbria Jazz Festival

Local Tradition

Highlights

  • Celebrates jazz music and beyond
  • Takes place in Perugia, near Assisi
  • Held annually in July
  • Features prominent international artists
  • Offers some free open-air concerts
QUICK INFO
Stage:
Stage 14: Valfabbrica to Assisi
Town:
Perugia
Address:
06081 Province of Perugia Italy
When:

Occurs annually, over 10 days during first half of July

Admission Fees:

Paid events. Some free events.

Overview

The Umbria Jazz Festival is an annual event celebrating jazz music and its cultural influence, taking place in the picturesque town of Perugia, near Assisi.

The festival features a diverse lineup of international artists, with concerts held in various venues, including historic theaters, piazzas, and gardens.

Alongside the paid performances, the festival also offers free open-air concerts and street performances, encouraging a lively atmosphere for music lovers of all ages.

In addition to jazz, the festival encompasses a wide range of genres, making it an unmissable event for all music enthusiasts.

Event Schedule

The schedule varies each day, with numerous performances and events taking place throughout the festival’s 10-day duration. Specific schedules and times can be found on the event’s official website.

History

Since its inception in 1973, the Umbria Jazz Festival has grown into one of Europe’s most significant international festivals, attracting some of the greatest names in jazz history, including Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, and Herbie Hancock.

The festival has faced challenges, such as the “Years of Lead” from 1978-1982, but has persevered and expanded, now encompassing a wide range of music genres and fostering cultural exchange.

Over the years, many notable artists have graced the festival’s stages, contributing to its rich history and making it an essential event for jazz enthusiasts worldwide.