Curaçao Jazz Festival 2025: Dates, Tickets, Lineup & More

Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival 2025: Where Music Meets Paradise

From sultry jazz ballads to Caribbean beats and global pop icons, the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival returns from August 28–30, 2025 with three nights of unforgettable performances on the sunny shores of Willemstad. This iconic festival has become the Caribbean’s ultimate music experience, where the rhythms of the world meet the easygoing charm of island life. Whether you're a jazz purist, a reggae lover, or a pop enthusiast, this event delivers an immersive blend of sound, culture, and tropical ambiance.

A Festival with Deep Roots

Since its debut in 2010, the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival has grown into one of the most prestigious events in the Caribbean. Born as a sister event to the famed Dutch North Sea Jazz Festival, it quickly earned international attention by booking legends like Stevie Wonder, Prince, and Diana Ross. Its unique mix of genres—jazz, funk, soul, Latin, pop, and R&B—attracts fans from all over the world. The event is more than a concert series; it’s a cultural movement that lights up Curaçao every late August with incredible energy and artistry.

After a short hiatus, the festival made a big return in 2024—and 2025 promises to be even bigger.

2025 Lineup: Stars Under the Caribbean Sky

The 2025 edition is stacked with a vibrant mix of established legends and rising stars from across the globe. Here's what to expect:

Thursday, August 28

• Gilberto Santa Rosa – The “Gentleman of Salsa” brings his rich vocals and romantic energy to the stage.
• Kool & The Gang – Funk, soul, and R&B classics like "Celebration" and "Get Down On It" will have the whole crowd dancing.

Friday, August 29

• Ricky Martin – The Latin pop icon will ignite the crowd with global hits like "Livin’ La Vida Loca" and "Vente Pa' Ca."
• Ne-Yo – Smooth R&B vibes and a deep catalog of radio favorites.
• Gipsy Kings (by Diego Baliardo) – Expect irresistible flamenco rhythms and soulful harmonies.
• Kandace Springs – A soulful jazz pianist and singer with a voice as smooth as velvet.
• Paul Carrack – Legendary voice behind hits like "Over My Shoulder" and "How Long."
• Ryan Castro – Colombian reggaeton with raw energy and street-smart lyrics.
• Sheila E. & The E-Train – A percussion powerhouse delivering jazz, Latin, and funk fusion.

Saturday, August 30

• Snoop Dogg – Yes, Uncle Snoop is bringing the West Coast to the Caribbean.
• Tems – Nigerian R&B rising star known for her haunting voice and Afrobeat-infused hits.
• Koffee – Reggae’s new generation leader with empowering messages and good vibes.
• Jacob Collier – A multi-instrumentalist genius blending jazz, soul, pop, and audience participation.
• Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles – Funky organ grooves and gospel-laced energy.
• Gonzalo Rubalcaba & Hamilton de Holanda – Latin jazz fusion at its finest, featuring piano and mandolin mastery.
• Cimafunk – A Cuban funk explosion combining James Brown swagger with Afro-Cuban beats.

Each night features multiple stages, creating a musical playground with something for every taste. Expect late-night encores, impromptu jams, and surprise collaborations.

Where the Magic Happens: Venue & Experience

The festival is held at the World Trade Center in Piscadera Bay, just outside downtown Willemstad. It features three dynamic stages:

• Sam Cooke Stage – The main outdoor stage for headliners.
• Sir Duke Stage – Beachside vibes meet big energy.
• Celia Stage – An indoor venue for intimate performances and jazz greats.

Picture dancing under the stars, palm trees swaying, warm ocean breezes, and world-class sound lighting up the night.

Tickets: Your Gateway to the Music

Festival tickets are available in several formats:

• Single-Day Tickets – $195 USD for general admission per day.
• 3-Day Festival Pass – Buy tickets for Friday and Saturday, and get Thursday’s show free.
• Free Opening Concert (Wednesday, August 27) – Don’t miss QUIQUE’s high-energy reggaeton fusion show downtown, open to all.

Tickets are digital and can be purchased through official online platforms and authorized vendors on the island. VIP packages and travel bundles are also available for those looking for an upgraded experience.

Getting There & Staying There

Curaçao International Airport (CUR) is well connected with direct flights from North America, Europe, and Latin America. Airlines like KLM, JetBlue, American, and Copa make the island easily accessible.

Accommodation Options:

• Walking Distance: Marriott Beach Resort, Dreams Curaçao
• Downtown Charm: Pietermaai District (boutique hotels like BOHO, BijBlauw)
• Beach Getaway: Jan Thiel, Mambo Beach (resorts with pool and sea views)

Book early—hotels fill up fast around the festival!

Beyond the Music: Culture, Beach, and Nightlife

When you’re not swaying to saxophones or reggae rhythms, explore all that Curaçao has to offer:

• Beaches: Cas Abao, Blue Bay, and Klein Curaçao are island gems.
• Downtown Willemstad: A UNESCO World Heritage Site bursting with color, colonial history, and cool cafés.
• Nightlife & Afterparties: Check out Miles Jazz Café, 27 Bar & Terrace, or pop-up afterparties hosted around the island.
• Cuisine: Indulge in Keshi Yena, lionfish ceviche, and cold Polar beer. The festival’s food court also offers a global buffet of flavors.

Why This Festival Belongs on Your Bucket List

The Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival is more than just a concert—it's a full-sensory cultural escape. Jazz lovers will be spoiled by the variety of talent and authenticity. Global travelers will fall for the charm of the island, the rhythm of the crowd, and the thrill of hearing world-class music under the stars.

Whether you’re grooving to Snoop, swaying with Tems, or discovering a jazz artist you never knew you loved—Curaçao 2025 is calling.