August Blues festival kicks off in Haapsalu as largest blues event in the Baltics
The largest blues festival in the Baltic states, August Blues, began in Haapsalu on 31 July, offering 35 concerts across nine stages over three days.
The August Blues festival, the largest blues music event in the Baltic states, began in Haapsalu on Thursday, 31 July. The three-day festival opened with performances by artists from six countries, featuring both contemporary and traditional blues. Thousands of visitors are expected in Haapsalu for the first weekend of August, as this year marks the 32nd edition of the event. The programme comprises 35 concerts across nine stages, with musicians from 11 countries taking part.
On the opening day, the main stage in the courtyard of the bishop's castle hosted Eric Sardinas, known for delta blues and rock, and the a cappella group Estonian Voices. From the United States came Skyler Saufley, who performs West Coast blues and jump blues from the 1940s and 1950s, along with Mike Wheeler, a member of the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame. The Danish-Irish group Trainman Blues particularly impressed the audience.
In addition to the main concerts at the bishop's castle, numerous performances and events are taking place in various locations across Haapsalu. Music can be heard at the railway station, in the dance pavilion on the Haapsalu promenade, at the culture centre, in the Dome Church, and in many cafes, pubs and terraces. This wide range of venues gives festival-goers the chance to enjoy blues in different settings throughout the town.
