From August 23-25, three days of Jazz in the Vineyard bring top musicians from around the world to Međimurje for a boutique festival in a unique natural setting.
Now in its fourth year, having already attracted 1,500 visitors over the previous three, the event takes place at the very top of Mađerka hill, cascading vineyards around it and a breathtaking view that takes in Austria, Hungary and Slovenia.
The music on offer this year is equally striking. Headlining is Yaremi Kordos & Evolution Cuban Jazz, who performed with the Buena Vista Social Club. They are joined on the bill by jazz pianist Borna Pehar. This acclaimed young Croatian will be promoting his first album and plays here with an international band made up of musicians from four countries.
Other acts come from Brazil, Belgium, Hungary and Poland, as well as the young members of Jazz Ravne from Slovenia.
In addition to the concerts, musicians will be sharing their knowledge at several masterclasses, while visitors can view the exhibition, Portraits – Music in the Picture, in co-operation with a festival from Slovenia, Jazz Ravne.
In between shows, DJs such as Ozren Kanceljak and William Collins and others will be keeping the rhythm going.
The spotlight will also be given to the festival’s artistic director, a celebrated guitarist and winner of a Lifetime Achievement Award, Ratko Zjača.
The surrounding municipality of Štrigova in northern Croatia is deep in wine country, as yet unblemished by tourist hordes. Owners of the estate where the festival is held, the Štampar family, claimed one of the biggest awards in the industry, a Decanter gold for the best sparkling wine Urban white in 2023, while inspired local chef Marko Palfi will be responsible for the accompanying culinary delights.
The festival programme also includes a Cultural Centre in Štrigova, where the masterclasses and exhibitions can be found, and guests can always relax after the event in the healing waters of the nearby Terme Sv Martin.
With its unique location, top-class jazz, cultural programme, award-winning wine and superb gastronomic offer, Međimurje’s Jazz in the Vineyard festival should appeal to anyone who enjoys the finer things in life.
Jazz in the Vineyard, Štrigova, Međimurje. August 23-25.
Created in collaboration with Jazz in the Vineyard.