Jazz in ’t Park has played its final concert as Ghent ends structural support
After 31 editions, the beloved free festival Jazz in ’t Park will no longer take place in its current form. The city of Ghent has announced it will end structural support for the small-scale but culturally significant event, leaving organisers, musicians and cultural figures disappointed and concerned about the loss of a vital platform for jazz talent.
Founded to introduce Ghent residents to contemporary jazz, the festival began in Zuidpark before settling in Voorhavenpark in the Muide district. Over the decades, it became a fixture on the city’s cultural calendar, attracting around 15,000 visitors annually. It offered a stage for young musicians through initiatives like the B-Jazz International Contest and featured established artists such as Jef Neve and Fulco Ottervanger.
A surprise to the organisers
“This was a space where music, culture, and diversity came together,” Filip Verneert of vzw Muziekmozaïek told VRT. “We were told in a phone call that the festival would no longer go ahead. The programme for the 32nd edition in September had already been finalised.”
In response, 28 figures from the local jazz and cultural sectors signed an open letter urging the city to reconsider. “The festival is an institution and a springboard for many young talents from our own country. This is a regrettable decision that was made without consultation,” they wrote.
Budget issues in Ghent
Alderman for culture Joris Vandenbroucke (Voor Gent) defended the city’s decision, citing financial constraints. “I’m a great fan and regular visitor myself, but the budget is tight, we have to make choices."
While the city is offering a one-time subsidy of 30,000 EUR for a possible restart, Van Keymeulen calls it “completely unfeasible.” Whether additional funding will be available in 2026 remains unclear, as Ghent faces a 120 million EUR budget shortfall and is reassessing which responsibilities it will continue to take on directly.
For now, organisers hope to rally support. “We’re making a targeted call to the jazz community,” said Vandenbroucke.
#FlandersNewsService | Improvisation quartet No Plan Man © PHOTO STAD GENT
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