Stockholm Jazz Festival: What to Expect This October

Stockholm Jazz Festival returns in October for ten days of international jazz spread across 93 venues, from the city center to surrounding suburbs. With over 300 program points featuring both returning favorites and first-time performers, this year's edition is one of the most expansive yet.

International Jazz Acts and Swedish Highlights

The festival brings a strong international jazz lineup including bassist Richard Bona, saxophonists Lakecia Benjamin and Isaiah Collier, and Malian singer Fatoumata Diawara — several of whom perform in Stockholm for the first time. Swedish acts like Goran Kajfeš Tropiques, Sara Aldén, and Mats & Morgan with Henrik Linder round out a program that festival director Eric Birath describes as a cross-section of where jazz stands today — a multicultural phenomenon shaped by local expressions from Casablanca to Los Angeles. Festival director Eric Birath personally highlights Jason Moran's solo concert, the duo of Brazilian pianist Amaro Freitas and Senegalese kora player Momi Maiga at Moderna Museet, and Moroccan artist Oum at Folkoperan as unmissable events.

Key Takeaways

Stockholm Jazz Festival delivers a rich and eclectic mix of jazz traditions and innovation across an impressive 93 venues this October. Whether you're drawn to established international names or emerging Nordic talent, there's something essential for every jazz fan.

Author: Dan Backman

Source: Orkesterjournalen

Published: September 19, 2026