Olhão prepares to launch new waterfront jazz festival

A new music festival is set to make its debut on the Algarve’s summer calendar later this month as Olhão South Jazz brings two evenings of live performances to the city’s waterfront.

Taking place on July 24 and 25 at Parque Ribeirinho Poente, the inaugural festival will combine jazz, soul and contemporary Portuguese music against the backdrop of the Ria Formosa, with organisers promising sunset concerts, food, local crafts and a relaxed festival atmosphere.

The line-up features pianist Júlio Resende, singer Áurea, the Orquestra de Jazz do Algarve (Algarve Jazz Orchestra) and Sara Badalo, alongside several other artists performing across the festival’s two stages.

One of the event’s standout moments will be a pause in the programme to allow audiences to enjoy the sunset over the Ria Formosa, creating what organisers describe as a shared moment between music, landscape and nature.

Beyond the concerts, visitors will find food stalls, bars, a VIP area and the Ria Market, showcasing local artisans, independent brands and creative projects from across the region.

The festival runs daily from 6pm until midnight.

Tickets are already on sale online and at Cantaloupe, in Olhão. Daily ticket cost €8 for children (aged 12 to 16) and €10 for adults, while two-day passes cost €14.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.