The Festival
About Red Light Jazz
The Red Light Jazz Festival is an annual, multi-day international jazz festival that has taken place since 2014 in and around Amsterdam’s iconic Red Light District.
The festival was founded by local entrepreneurs to revive the rich jazz history of the historic city center and to build bridges between long-standing and new businesses in the area, as well as between residents and visitors of the district.
Red Light Jazz provides a stage for both established and emerging jazz artists from around the world. Performances take place at a variety of unique venues within the Red Light District, including Casa Rosso, Casablanca, Olof’s Chapel, Hotel Prins Hendrik, the Salvation Army Hall, the Bulldog Palace Hotel, and the Walloon Church.
“Red Light Jazz is more than just a musical event — it is a celebration of Amsterdam’s rich jazz history.”
— Red Light Jazz · Festival Amsterdam
The event highlights the historical connection between Amsterdam and jazz, with special attention to jazz icons such as trumpeter Chet Baker and saxophonist Kid Dynamite, both of whom are closely linked to the city’s jazz heritage.
Since its founding, Red Light Jazz has grown into a significant cultural event in the Dutch capital, featuring numerous live performances across dozens of venues over multiple days.
In addition to its cultural value, Red Light Jazz is known for its strong connection to the local community through collaborations with entrepreneurs, cultural organizations, and residents. The festival also stimulates the local economy, particularly during the festival weekend.
For several years, Red Light Jazz received financial support from the Amsterdam Fund for the Arts (AFK), which stated that the festival “contributes to Amsterdam’s appeal as a city with a long-standing jazz tradition.”
In summary, Red Light Jazz is more than just a musical event — it is a celebration of Amsterdam’s rich jazz history, presenting the historic city center in a positive and cultural light. Through its unique combination of music, distinctive venues, and its iconic setting, the festival has firmly established itself within Amsterdam’s cultural landscape.
TICKETS 2026
Festival
Become a Red Light Jazz Partner
Are you a brand or business that wants to support the world of jazz?
We’d love to hear from you — get in touch:
info@redlightjazz.com