The Bilbao Blues Festival returns from 24 to 26 July 2026 with free concerts, legendary artists from the world of blues and a unique cultural experience on the banks of the estuary.
An essential fixture for blues fans
Bilbao will host a new edition of the Bilbao Blues Festival from 24 to 26 July 2026. In just four years, the festival has cemented its place as one of the most prominent events on the international blues circuit. El Arenal will be the main stage for the festival, which is offering free admission and promises three days of vibrant music and cultural activities in a unique riverfront setting.
A top-level roster with an international flavour
This edition will feature a stellar performance by the legendary blues band Travellin’ Brothers, who will also receive the 5th Bilbao Blues Festival Award.
Alongside them, the lineup includes renowned artists such as the Bilbao All Star Blues Band, a group specially formed for the festival, composed of the legendary bassist and vocalist Bob Stroger, winner of the Bilbao Blues Festival Award in 2022, Willie Buck (vocals), Teeny Tucker (vocals), Jimi Primetime Smith (guitar), Anthony Geraci (piano), Wes Starr (drums), and Bob Corritore (harmonica). The Bilbao band The Cherry Boppers, accompanied by Patricia Reckless, will open the program of this fifth edition on July 24th, promising a vibrant live performance. Judith Hill, Ivan Singh, and Mark Hummel will also perform on the Keler stage, located in the Arenal. These sensational artists join the Travellin’ Brothers, who will receive the festival’s award for their extensive and successful career.
The festival’s second venue, the Arenal Kiosk, will be filled with energy with performances by Blues Train, Ian Siegal, and Skyler Saufley, in concerts that introduce the public to different facets of contemporary blues.
Two stages, many voices
The festival’s second venue, the Arenal Kiosk, will be filled with intensity with performances by Blues Train, Ian Siegal and Skyler Saufley, in concerts that bring the public closer to different aspects of contemporary blues.
Much more than music: activities for all tastes
The festival offers more besides concerts. As a warm-up event, the state final of the Volotea Blues Challenge will be held on 26 July, with various bands competing to represent Spain in the 2026 European Blues Challenge.
The Bilbao Guggenheim Museum is joining the programme with a speech on feminism on Saturday 26 July. On Sunday morning, the boogie-woogie open classes will return to the kiosk, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy dancing in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
A city that breathes the blues
This year’s festival poster, showing a wandering bluesman crossing the iconic Puente de la Salve bridge, encapsulates the spirit of the event: a musical journey that blends tradition and modernity, American roots and the essence of Bilbao. Created by the Basque studio Moriskette, this image symbolises the arrival of the blues in the heart of the city.
Practical information
📅 Dates: From 24 to 26 July 2026 (with the Challenge on 26 July)
📍 Venue: Arenal de Bilbao and Kiosko del Arenal
🎟️ Admission: Free for all concerts and activities
🌐 More information: www.bilbaobluesfestival.com
Bilbao Blues Festival is a unique opportunity to catch top international acts in an amazing urban setting, with something for everyone and a city totally committed to celebrating music. If you have the opportunity of visiting Bilbao in July, be sure not to miss it.
