Jazz in de Gracht

Jazz in de Gracht (Jazz in the Canal) is a free jazz music event on the canals of The Hague, where boats loaded with musicians and instruments float on through.

Listen to live jazz on the water for free

This free event is centred around the canals and the quaysides of the city centre, with top jazz musicians offering an exciting and vibrant ambience. They follow a route with multiple stops, creating beautiful scenery with a festive atmosphere. This year’s programme is like none before, with a record number of acts.

Jazz artists pass by on flat-bottomed boats, creating swinging vibes all across the waterways. Residents of The Hague can listen from the street or through open windows. The quaysides are particularly popular, milling with listeners for three glorious days.

Where can you see and hear Jazz in de Gracht?

The main Jazz in de Gracht locations are Bierkade, Dunne Bierkade and Groenewegje in the heart of the city, with more jazz activities taking place at Hooikade and Veenkade.

The Dunne Bierkade and het Groenewegje will have six stops. The Bierkade will have two stages on the shore, as well as various food trucks with culinary treats.

At the Veenkade, near the garden of the King’s palace, there will be performances on a floating podium, which you can see with a drink in hand from various charming terraces and canal side eateries. 

Jazz in de Gracht programme

Jazz is the main focus of the festival programme, but there are many other styles performed too, like soul, funk and blues with over 50 different acts. Jazz in de Gracht is an exhilarating music event where you can become immersed in the sound of jazz, blues, soul and funk. Let's hope the Dutch weather is reliable!