Breda Jazz Festival: A Swinging Celebration of Music and Tradition in the Netherlands

The Origins of the Breda Jazz Festival: Half a Century of Swing

The Breda Jazz Festival began in 1971 as a small-scale event, inspired by the rich jazz traditions of New Orleans and the growing popularity of jazz in the Netherlands. What started with a handful of performances has grown into an internationally beloved festival, known for its accessibility and diversity. The festival is deeply rooted in the culture of Breda, a city that has been breathing “jazz” during Ascension weekend for more than fifty years. The opening on Ascension Day at 1 p.m. on the Grote Markt marks the start of four days of music, with the last notes resounding on Sunday evening

A Musical Spectacle in the Streets of Breda

The Breda Jazz Festival offers an unrivalled programme with more than 215 bands and musicians, spread across twenty stages in the city centre. From the bustling Grote Markt to the intimate Willem Merkxtuin, each stage has its own atmosphere and musical style. Some highlights of 2025 edition include:

• Various genres: Although jazz is at its core, the festival offers a wide mix of styles, including classic jazz, blues, swing, modern jazz, and New Orleans styles. In 2025, the festival will even introduce modern jazz concerts on Thursday 29 May, a new addition to the programme.

• Free performances: Most concerts are free to attend, with open-air stages in squares such as the Haven, Kerkplein (ideal for blues lovers), and Vismarktstraat. Expect acts such as the Festival Surprise Band, The Stomping Aces, and Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse [].

• Special concerts: For a number of indoor performances, such as the Tribute to Ray Charles ft. Uros Peric (31 May at De Avenue) or the Elijah Gospel Choir ft. Nicolle Rochelle (1 June at the Grote Kerk), here tickets are required, ranging from €20 to €22.50 [,].

• Street music and parades: The festival kicks off with a bang thanks to marching bands in Willemstraat and piano music at the train station, creating a festive atmosphere .

A special moment is the presentation of the Breda Jazz Award, which in 2025 was won by drummer Chris Strik for his contribution to the jazz scene []. This underlines the festival's focus on honouring both established and emerging artists.

Tip for visitors: Download the programme flyer (available as a PDF at www.bredajazzfestival.nl) or check out the festival's Spotify playlist to discover your favourite artists [,].

More than Music: A Cultural Experience

The Breda Jazz Festival is more than just a music festival; it is a celebration of Breda's community spirit and culture. The historic city centre, with attractions such as the Grote Kerk and the Haven, provides a beautiful backdrop for the event. Some highlights outside of the concerts include:

• Food stalls: Enjoy Dutch delicacies such as stroopwafels, herring and bitterballen, alongside international dishes from the food trucks around the stages.

• Children's activities: The festival offers family fun with events such as a children's concert by the MayDay Jazzband (Jungle Book theme) on 30 May [].

• Film screenings: In the run-up to the festival, jazz-related films such as Ray, a tribute to jazz legends, will be screened [].

• Art and culture: Collaborations with organisations such as the Stedelijk Museum Breda and Sound of Europe bring extra variety, with exhibitions and surprising performances [].

The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, with jazz lovers, families and tourists dancing, eating and enjoying the balmy May evenings together. The Willem Merkxtuin, a hidden gem in the city, offers an intimate place to relax and enjoy quiet performances [].

Sustainability and Accessibility

The Breda Jazz Festival is largely free, with the exception of a few ticketed concerts, and focuses on sustainability with waste recycling and promotion of public transport. Breda is easily accessible by train (Breda-Centraal station) and bicycle, and the festival stages are compactly located in the centre, making it walkable. Wheelchair-accessible zones and facilities ensure that the festival is inclusive for everyone.

Practical tips for 2025:

• Plan ahead: Check www.bredajazzfestival.nl for the programme, which is traditionally announced on Easter Monday []. Book tickets for paid concerts early via the website [].

• Clothing and weather: May can be sunny, but bring a light raincoat for unexpected showers. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking between stages.

• Accommodation: Book hotels or Airbnbs in Breda early, as the city is full during the festival. Consider nearby cities such as Tilburg as an alternative.

• Support the festival: Donate via the QR code or website (€3 suggested) to keep the festival free [,].

Tips for your Breda Jazz Festival Experience

• Want to get the most out of the Breda Jazz Festival 2025? Here are some tips to help you plan your visit and enjoy this swinging event:

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  • Check the programme: Download the festival flyer or sign up for the newsletter at www.bredajazzfestival.nl so you don't miss a single performance [].

  • Combine your visit: Explore Breda's highlights such as the Grote Kerk, the Begijnhof or the Chassé Theatre during your trip.

  • Social media: Follow #BredaJazz2025 and the festival's official social media accounts for live updates and photos. Share your own experiences with these hashtags on Instagram and X.

Why the Breda Jazz Festival Should Be on Your Bucket List

The Breda Jazz Festival is a celebration of music, culture and the warm atmosphere of Breda, where jazz lovers and partygoers come together in a historic setting. With its free admission, diverse line-up and vibrant energy, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the soul of jazz. Whether you're swinging on the Grote Markt, enjoying blues on the Kerkplein or catching an intimate concert in the Willem Merkxtuin, this festival will capture your heart.

Plan your visit to the Breda Jazz Festival and let yourself be carried away by the swinging sounds of Breda. Let the jazz begin!

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