The international and multicultural Liburnia Jazz Festival is the largest Croatian jazz-oriented event with a clear and straightforward mission. That is to bring jazz music closer to a broader audience. Every year since 2001, musicians from all over the world gather in Opatija and Lovran to make music together and share their love for jazz with others. 

During the first week of July, Opatija lives for jazz. Daily concerts occur in many different locations, such as streets, bars, promenades, parks, squares, hotel terraces, and even on boat rides. Is there a better way to discover and enjoy new music than in a magical setting such as Opatija Riviera? 

See for yourself and become one of the many loyal visitors who come back every year for more. Check out what they have in store this year on the official website, book your ticket, and prepare to be seduced by the rhythmic melodies of jazz. 

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What makes jazz music jazz?‍

Most people would consider jazz as something incomprehensible, too difficult, and reserved only for professional and sophisticated musicians. However, Liburnia Jazz Festival is created precisely to break this stereotype. Like every other musical style or genre, jazz has harmony and rhythm. What sets jazz apart from others is this cool thing called improvisation. In other words, they are making it up spontaneously.

An interesting fact is that jazz music relaxes the body by activating your alpha brain waves, which helps reduce anxiety. Apart from being a stress relief, listening to jazz music can also induce better sleep.

Festival programme: Festivals & Workshops 

The program indulges even the most demanding audience of jazz lovers but also delights even the reluctant listener. The festival invites numerous exceptional musicians who represent what jazz is with their personality and artwork. These are established stars of the world jazz scene or those on their way to becoming one. 

Workshops are held in various historical buildings of Opatija for professional jazz musicians but also for musical laypeople who want to learn more about the subject. These are so-called Jazz Talks, that is, informal conversations in which the audience is free to ask questions to the musicians or about them.

At the same time, Jazz Ex Tempore takes place in the same area. During this week-long event, famous jazz artists from various countries all gather in Opatija, where they compose original yet nowhere-performed compositions. 

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Take jazz home with you

All original compositions created during the festival are later available on published CDs. So if you hear something you like, you can buy it as a unique souvenir later. Just imagine listening to it in the comfort of your home, closing your eyes, and letting the music transport you back to the warm summer evenings in Opatija.

Hearing so many musicians with different styles creating music is a truly unique experience. Liburnia Jazz Festival will undoubtedly make a good impression on your vacation.

For many years, Liburnia Jazz Festival has become a recognizable brand for Opatija as it acquired an essential role in preserving Croatian cultural heritage and promoting it in the world.

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