When you think of Novi Sad, what is the first thing that comes to mind? The Danube, the Fortress, relaxed strolls, and that specific, calm pace of life that you won’t experience anywhere else. This year, that authentic local spirit gets its perfect musical backdrop. From July 3 to July 5, the city turns into a massive open-air stage as the Novi Sad Jazz Festival meets its audience with a completely fresh concept and under a slogan that perfectly captures our mindset – “LAGÁNO” (Easygoing).
With the stress on the second syllable, in true Novi Sad fashion, the word LAGÁNO is more than just the festival’s motto. It is a philosophy of life—the art of slowing down without stagnating, recognizing top-tier quality without elitism, and surrendering to the moment. And is there any better way to celebrate freedom and improvisation than through jazz?
Approaching its 30th anniversary, the festival is stepping out of traditional concert halls this year and moving straight to where the heart of Novi Sad beats: among the people, in the squares, and across its most iconic streets. We can look forward to more than 35 hours of dynamic programming, featuring over 80 performers from eight countries who will transform the city center into the epicenter of the European cultural scene.
The Visual Code of Novi Sad and Jazz: The Magic of the Letter “Џ”
One of the most intriguing details of this year’s festival is its new visual identity. Right at the center is the Cyrillic letter “Џ” (pronounced j as in jazz)—resonant, striking, and unique. It symbolizes freedom of form, unconventionality, and the authenticity of jazz.
Did you know that when you look at this year’s festival locations from a bird’s-eye view, they form the exact shape of the letter “Џ” on the city map? In this way, Novi Sad itself is urbanistically and geographically woven into the rhythm of the festival. This visual identity is paired with a deep, mystical purple color, carrying the energy of freedom and an atmosphere that lingers in the air long after the last note is played.
A Century Since the Birth of Miles Davis and International Stars at the Open-Air Cinema
This year’s edition also holds immense historical significance—it is dedicated to celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of the musical genius and jazz legend, Miles Davis.
The main concert program will take place in the magical setting of the Open-Air Cinema of the Cultural Center of Novi Sad, featuring world-renowned names:
- Avishai Cohen – One of today’s greatest global jazz stars and a double bassist who brings an incredible fusion of virtuosity and emotion.
- Joe Lovano & Antonio Faraò – The Grammy Award winner and the celebrated pianist will present their “Explorations” project, a unique musical dialogue blending top traditions with modern improvisation, backed by a stellar rhythm section featuring Ira Coleman and Jonathan Blake.
- Francesca Tandoi – The phenomenal Italian pianist, vocalist, and composer, widely known for her incredible, gripping energy on stage.
Note for visitors: Tickets for these exclusive programs at the Open-Air Cinema can be purchased via the Gigstix network.
Jazz for Everyone: Free Admission at Katolička Porta and City Streets
The festival’s new concept, realized through the collaboration of the Cultural Center of Novi Sad, the “Novi Sad – European Capital of Culture” Foundation, and with the proud support of the Tourism Organization of the City of Novi Sad, is driven by the idea that premium music should be accessible to all. That is why admission to all other festival programs is completely free!
The stage at Katolička Porta will host some of the most exciting names on the contemporary jazz scene:
- Milena Casado – An artist described by The New York Times as a true revelation, known for weaving acoustic sounds with electronic experimentation.
- Emma Smith – Winner of the prestigious Parliamentary Jazz Award and a vocalist who captivates from the very first note.
- Vladimir Kostadinović Quartet – One of the leading European jazz drummers of the new generation, bringing a refined rhythm and a powerful signature style.
- Alongside them, the Porta stage will feature regional stars: QuadBones, the Novi Sad instrumental band Deep Steady (blending Jamaican rhythms with American jazz), the Bojan Cvetković Quartet, and Jazzysad, a pioneer in fusing electronic and jazz sounds in the Balkans.
Music Taking Over Njegoševa and Laze Telečkog Streets
This year, jazz vibrations are spilling over into two of the most vibrant streets in the very heart of the city – Njegoševa and Laze Telečkog. Strolling through the city, you will have the chance to enjoy free performances by fantastic domestic and regional acts such as: Bullet for a Badman, Funk Shui, Foltin, White City Soul, DJ Katalina, Boris Hložan, Afro Gitano, Anđela Koruga Quartet, Tanja Senić Quartet, Valeria Shurgalina Quartet, and many others.
In addition to live concerts, over the three festival days, the city will live and breathe jazz through side programs, exhibitions, film screenings, and art workshops (such as the Miles Davis Listening Room at the Likovni Salon).
Why You Absolute Must Be in Novi Sad This July
The Novi Sad Jazz Festival is no longer just a lineup of concerts—it is a three-day city experience, a celebration of freedom, togetherness, and summer. We invite you to pack your good mood, bring your favorite people, and surrender to the streets of Novi Sad from July 3 to July 5.
Forget the rush, find your spot under the stars, grab a drink, and enjoy world-class music. See you in the heart of the city to live and listen together – LAGÁNO.
Explore full schedules and the complete lineup on the official website: novisadjazzfestival.rs
