Jazz returns to one of the Algarve’s most beautiful settings

One of the Algarve’s most distinctive summer music festivals returns later this month, as Lagoa Jazz Fest celebrates its 21st edition with three evenings of live performances in the picturesque Parque Municipal do Sítio das Fontes, in Estômbar.

Taking place from July 17 to 19, the festival combines internationally acclaimed jazz musicians with the tranquil surroundings of one of the region’s most beautiful riverside parks, offering audiences an opportunity to enjoy world-class music in a unique natural setting.

Since its launch in 2003, Lagoa Jazz Fest has welcomed more than 250 musicians from Portugal and around the world, including artists from Spain, France, Italy, Austria, Brazil, Argentina, Japan, Colombia, India and the United States. Over the years, audiences have enjoyed everything from solo performances and intimate trios to big bands, alongside an impressive variety of instruments, including harp, koto, harmonica, bandoneon and vibraphone.

This year’s programme reflects that diversity once again.

The festival opens on Friday, July 17, with vocalist Carmen Souza, whose music blends jazz with Cape Verdean influences. She will be joined by Theo Pascal, Diogo Santos and Elias Kacomanolis. Earlier in the evening, audiences can also enjoy Logic Rhapsody on the Lounge Stage.

On Saturday, July 18, pianist Ricardo Pinheiro presents his new project, “Songs of Longing”, accompanied by an international ensemble featuring Michael Formanek, Jorge Rossy, Mário Laginha and Andy Sheppard. The evening also includes a performance by the Paulo Di Sousa Trio.

The festival concludes on Sunday, July 19, with “Miles Davis Legacy”, a tribute led by acclaimed trumpeter Gileno Santana, featuring Desidério Lázaro, Álvaro Pinto, Hugo Lobo, Gonçalo Sarmento and Gonçalo Ribeiro. Earlier that evening, Boarding Pass will perform on the Lounge Stage.

The venue opens daily at 6.30pm, with the main concerts beginning at 10pm in the amphitheatre. Lounge Stage performances start at 8pm on July 17 and 18, and at 11pm after the main concerts. On the closing day, the Lounge Stage performance takes place before the headline concert.

Tickets cost €15, with discounts available for holders of the Passaporte Cultural. Tickets can be purchased online or through Lagoa Municipal ticket offices.

The festival is organised by the Municipal Council of Lagoa, with artistic direction by Joaquim Andrés and António Palma.