The Ubud Village Jazz Festival took place on August 12th and 13th, 2022 at the ARMA Museum in Ubud, Bali. Attending music festivals and events is one of my favourite activities and is always a great excuse to plan a luxury trip.
As regular flights return to Indonesia and COVID restrictions become more flexible, the island is starting to shine again with nightlife, music, massive events, and human energy. After attending the biggest reggae festival in Indonesia just the week before, I was ready for some jazz in Ubud.
Content of this article:
International Line Up
After a 2021 edition with COVID protocols and only national artists (and a 2020 edition with no festival at all), this year’s Ubud Village Jazz Festival promised to make a big comeback. The Bernard Van Rossum Quartet was a big highlight from The Netherlands,
along with guitarist Sum Kim from South Korea.
Local Talent
But national talent was also honoured in the 2022’s edition.
Local artists included Tohpati Bertiga, a project from Indonesian musician Tohpati. Combining jazz, rock, and gamelan (a traditional Indonesian percussive ensemble), Batuan Ethnic Fusion took control of the stage. Balawan Batuan Ethnic Fusion brought gamelans and musicians from Bali and even went in for a crowd bath.
The Tribute to Natalie Cole” by Soulfeggio was a festive way to end the first day.
Irsa Destiwi & Warman Sanjaya Project showcased the quality of Indonesian Jazz.
Venue and Services
The Ubud Village Jazz Festival was held at the Agung Rai Museum of Art in Ubud, Bali. The event had the support of Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and was opened by its minister Sandiaga Uno.
There are two stages where the music alternates so that there is no waiting time between concerts. you simply move to the other stage at the end of each concert.
In between the two stages, are food stalls, bars, and seating areas. It is a wonderful place to hang out.
There was even a “kids’ zone” available so do not hesitate to bring the children.
Where to stay while attending the Ubud Jazz festival?
The Ubud Jazz festival takes place in the center of Ubud. There were free shuttles to and from the festival, and nearby parking was available
Tip: The most convenient lodging option for the Ubud Jazz festival is to find accommodation nearby.
I recommend Samastiti villa, a private pool 2-bedroom villa with a beautiful view that is located only 7 minute’s walk from the festival. You can read my review of that villa here. If you are looking for something more exotic, check out their treehouse as sleeping in a tree is a unique experience.
Where to eat while attending the Ubud Jazz festival?
I often eat before going to a music venue as the food is often overpriced and boring. It was not the case at the Ubud Jazz festival. They had about twenty independent high-quality food providers on site. From Indonesian food to burgers, Indian food, or Thai food, there was something to suit every taste. Prices were comparable to Ubud restaurant. Drinks were also very affordable by Bali standards. At the beer stand, it was possible to get four beers for one hundred thousand rpies! (About 6 Euros). For dessert, I loved the stand making eclairs and petit choux!
There were so many food stalls available that there were hardly any lines anywhere.
Tip: The Food at the Ubud Jazz festival is good and you can plan to eat there
In conclusion of my review of the Ubud Jazz festival
The Ubud Jazz festival is a special place to discover both local and international musicians. They might not have the most famous musicians but they had a very diverse and interesting lineup. What makes the festival special is the easy-going vibe and attention to the comfort of the participants. You can see that this is a festival organized by music lovers with fans in mind. I had a great time at the festival and look forwards to participating again in the coming year. It is definitely worth planning a trip to Ubud at that time of the year.
Speaking of Ubud, if you’re around, check out my guide to Central Bali in one day and my restaurant recommendations in the area, and if you’re curious about music experience, check out how this jazz festival compares to Montreux Jazz Festival.
