Luanda International Jazz Festival in Luanda
Luanda's international jazz festival, running since 2009 with a 2019 revival led by the ANGOJAZZ association, staged at Cine Atlantico in late July and early August with a history of hosting major international jazz names. Its blend of Angolan and touring international musicians makes it a genuine two-way cultural exchange rather than a simple showcase for visiting acts.
Luanda's international jazz tradition dates back to 2009, when the city launched its first dedicated jazz festival and drew an extraordinary run of legendary performers over its early editions, including McCoy Tyner, George Benson, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cassandra Wilson, Abdullah Ibrahim, and Manu Dibango, artists whose presence signaled real ambition for a festival still finding its footing.