About Us

The Jerusalem International Jazz Festival, produced by the Israel Festival, is one of the most daring, intriguing, and significant music festivals both in Israel and worldwide. In its 12th year, the festival marks a transition in leadership from Eyal Sher, the outgoing CEO of the Israel Festival, to Ori Vaknin, the new CEO for both festivals.

The artistic direction also sees a handover this year, from international trumpeter Avishai Cohen, who has led the festival since its founding, to pianist Nitai Hershkovits. During the upcoming festival, audiences will enjoy the collaborative artistic work of these two brilliant creators, both in their curation and in a special joint performance. Hadas Vanunu, who has been responsible for the festival’s production and artistic consulting since day one, continues her role. The festival is held with the support of the Jerusalem Foundation, the Jerusalem Municipality, and the Ministry of Culture.

This year, the festival draws inspiration from the tension between balance and imbalance, much like a mobile holding an entire world in delicate motion and constant harmony. The festival promises an extraordinary musical and artistic experience featuring prominent and surprising sounds across the wide spectrum of jazz, music of freedom, improvisation, and passion that stirs the imagination and moves the heart. In this spirit, the festival explores the museum’s new Art Garden, acres of landscape that are a work of art in themselves, through hills, paths, and sculptures both revealed and hidden.

Throughout the garden, 5 unique stages are scattered: from large-scale stages to intimate settings, with performances designed for sitting, standing, or lounging in a hammock with eyes closed. Beyond the stages, additional zones for music, art, movement, relaxation, and culinary experiences await. The artistic program weaves a winding path through the realms of Oriental, Classical, and Psychedelic jazz, a journey through time and space. Featuring original productions, premieres, and special encounters (both pre-planned and spontaneous), the festival facilitates unique first-time connections between local and international artists.

The festival spans three days. On its first day, June 9, a festive and unique opening night will take place. The audience will gather around the Love Stage, which will host three original productions created specifically for the festival, appearing one after the other on a single stage. On the second and third nights, we will embark on a powerful five-hour daily musical and artistic journey, featuring more than 20 performances per evening. We recommend immersing yourself in the wandering experience and the discoveries found along the way.

The 12th Jerusalem Jazz Festival will take place June 9–11, 2026.

Jazz Festival Team