Colombia’s historic city of Santa Cruz de Mompox will host its first ever jazz festival on October 5 and 6.
Located on an island in the Magdalena River in the northern Bolivar department, Mompox is becoming one of Colombia’s more popular destinations. Local officials are hoping the event will augment the region’s burgeoning tourism industry.
“The goal of hosting this event in Mompox…is to draw the attention of Colombia and the world to see an architectural and colonial gem; a precious and charming island, where we will present outstanding musical artists,” said enthused Bolivar governor Juan Carlos Gossain.
The festival begins on October 5 at 6PM at “Plaza de la Concepcion.” Famed New Orleans jazz performers, Dejan, Stephenson and Ross Trio, will open proceedings. The easiest way to reach the city is via ferry.
Performers at the festival include the jazz duo of Carlos Reyes and German Pinilla, country blues group “Blueswagen,” and the Guayaba Club band among others.
Festival organizers have also encouraged children to get involved. Kids from the traditional Pinillos school will be able to participate in musical workshops with the famous musicians.
For those unable to attend the festivities in person, the opening and closing events will be broadcast via satellite.
UNESCO confirmed Mompox’s status as a culturally significant Colombian town in 1995 when it named it as a World Heritage Site.
