Dear Friends,
Welcome to the fifth edition of the International Jazz Festival in Borovets — an event of special significance this year, as we also celebrate the 29th edition of the festival since its establishment in 1998 by the unforgettable Dr. Emil Iliev.
Over these three decades, the festival has established itself as one of the most significant jazz events in Bulgaria. This stage has welcomed outstanding Bulgarian and international musicians, while thousands of jazz lovers have discovered the magic of this music — the music of improvisation, freedom, and human connection.
We owe special gratitude to our gracious hosts at the Borovets resort complex, who, year after year, open their hearts to the festival and transform the mountain into a stage of art and inspiration.
Festival Program
We present to you the official program of the International Jazz Festival “Dr. Emil Iliev”, which will take place from July 31 to August 4, 2026 in Borovets. Five magical evenings under the stars await you, featuring some of the most impressive Bulgarian and international jazz artists.
Discover our artists
From the energy of Big Band Blagoevgrad and the Bulgarian projects of Spectrum Vocal Band, Emil Tasev Quartet and YAVI, to the international performances of The Eastern Quartet, Vinsen Garcia and Richard Bona Trio – the 2026 festival program brings together inspiring artists from Bulgaria, Switzerland, Spain, Cameroon and France.
Bulgaria
BIG BAND BLAGOEVGRAD
Switzerland
THE EASTERN
QUARTET
Bulgaria
SPECTRUM VOCAL BAND
Spain
VINSEN GARCIA
Bulgaria
EMIL TASEV QUARTET
Bulgaria
YAVI
Cameroon/France
RICHARD BONA TRIO
