Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen: Dates, History, Lineup & Visitor Tips
The Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen is one of Germany's most storied jazz festivals, held every spring in the Bavarian town of Burghausen. Since its founding in 1970 by Joe Viera, it has drawn international stars and emerging talents alike, creating a unique blend of concerts, workshops, and awards. For jazz enthusiasts planning a visit, understanding its rhythm and traditions is key to making the most of the experience.
This guide explains what the Jazzwoche is, when it typically takes place, how to get tickets, and what you can expect from the program, using information from the official website b-jazz.com and reliable historical sources. Since the festival's exact dates and lineups change each year, we'll point you to where to confirm the latest details.
What Is the Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen?
The Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen is an annual jazz festival that has been running since 1970, making it one of the oldest jazz events in Germany. Each spring, the festival transforms the town with a series of concerts that blend performances by established stars and rising newcomers. It is known for its diverse program that spans traditional jazz, fusion, and experimental sounds, often set against the backdrop of Burghausen's historic castle and its location on the Salzach river.
When Is the Jazzwoche Burghausen? (Dates and Schedule)
The festival traditionally takes place every spring, but exact dates vary from year to year. For instance, the 2026 edition featured a packed program, while the official dates for the 2027 edition have not yet been published on the festival's official website. To find confirmed dates and the full schedule, you should check the official site directly.
History and Significance: Since 1970, Founded by Joe Viera
Founded by jazz musician and promoter Joe Viera in 1970, the festival has grown from its roots into a significant cultural event in Germany. According to Wikipedia, it has been held annually in spring, and its long history makes it a key destination for jazz fans. The festival is supported by the Förderverein VzFzM, which helps sustain its program of concerts and educational activities.
What to Expect: Concerts, Jazznight, Workshops, and Awards
Beyond the main concerts, the Jazzwoche is known for its late-night 'Jazznight' events, which feature intimate performances that extend into the evening. The festival also organizes workshops and masterclasses for aspiring musicians, as well as several award programs that spotlight young talent. These include the European Young Artists' Jazz Award and the Burghauser Nachwuchs-Jazzpreis, which are presented regularly.
Artists and Lineup Highlights
The 2026 edition, as listed on the official site, included an impressive roster such as Mike Stern Band, Blue Moods & Wolfgang Haffner, Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, and the Shuteen Erdenebaatar Trio. This mix of international guitarists, vocal groups, and modern jazz ensembles illustrates the festival's broad taste. However, lineups change every year, so it's wise to check the current program on b-jazz.com as your primary source for the latest announcements.
How to Attend: Tickets, Venues, and Accessibility
Tickets for the Jazzwoche are available through the festival's online shop, which also sells vouchers and merchandise. Prices vary by event and seating category, so you'll need to see current options on the official website, as we don't have exact figures. The main concerts are held in venues around Burghausen, and the festival is committed to accessibility, but for specific details on wheelchair access or assistance, it's best to contact the organizers directly.
To find out how to get to the festival by car, train, or plane, you can check comprehensive travel guides that explain the best routes and parking options. For those planning their stay, we also have a useful packing list to help you prepare for weather and festival gear. And if it's your first time, our first-timer guide offers practical advice on navigating the festival as a newcomer.
Other Events: Jazz am Bichl, Jazz-Herbst, B'Jazz Jam
The Jazzwoche isn't the only event in Burghausen's calendar. The town also hosts Jazz am Bichl, an outdoor concert series, and Jazz-Herbst, an autumn jazz event that continues the musical tradition later in the year. Additionally, the B'Jazz Jam offers regular jam sessions where local and visiting musicians come together. Each of these events adds to the town's lively jazz scene.
Jazz Awards and Young Talent Programs
The festival is also a platform for nurturing new talent. The European Young Artists' Jazz Award and the Burghauser Nachwuchs-Jazzpreis are given to promising young musicians, often with a concert as part of the prize. This commitment to youth development is supported by the Burghausen Big Band, which sometimes performs with award winners. For details on applying or the next award ceremony, check the official site.
Plan Your Visit
Attending the Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen is a rewarding experience for any jazz lover, offering a mix of world-class performances and a welcoming local atmosphere. Since the festival's details can change from one year to the next, always refer to the official website b-jazz.com for the most current dates, lineup, and ticket information, as well as updates on related events like the Jazz-Herbst and B'Jazz Jam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Burghausen Jazz Festival 2026?
The 2026 edition of the Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen took place in spring, and the official website listed the full program. For specific dates and lineup details, we recommend checking the official site or past editions on b-jazz.com, though for future editions, confirmed dates are published there as well.
When do the jazz days take place in Burghausen?
The Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen is held annually in spring, typically spanning several days. Exact dates vary from year to year, so please refer to the official website b-jazz.com for the current schedule.
When is the Jazzwoche in Burghausen?
The Jazzwoche Burghausen takes place every spring. For the exact and confirmed dates of the next edition, check the official festival website at b-jazz.com, as dates are subject to change.
Is there a jazz festival in Bavaria?
Yes, the Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen is a major jazz festival in Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1970. There are also other jazz events in the region, such as Jazz am Bichl and Jazz-Herbst, which are part of the same scene.