Jazz n Blues in a very old, welsh, unassuming coastal town in the heartlands of Wales. What could be better? Not much in my eyes, but I am Welsh and a lover of live music so maybe I am biased. But let me convince you…
Every year to end the summer season in style, a fine mix of talented artists inhabit and indulge Fishguard with jazz n blues to satisfy all. From old style smoky, raw, solo blues acts that take you in their hold, to the experimental jazz groups that add their own style and panache to confuse yet satisfy your ears, everything is on offer here.
5 days, 40 acts, over 17 venues. Now in its 11th season, Aberjazz attracts some big names in the Jazz n Blues arena. This year’s acts inlclude Jacqui Dankworth with partner Charlie Wood, Ireland’s Eleanor McEvoy, Debbie Bond and the Tru Dats from the USA, Bristol’s Lady Nade and the Silhouettes, renowned local artist Lowri Evans, the legendary King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys and many more.
And if the mood takes you, you can get involved, by taking a harmonica lesson, an African drumming lesson, or by moving the old body with swing, tap, jazz and salsa classes. You can also jam with some of the musicians themselves in workshops throughout the festival.
Prices are affordable and many acts are free. I will be there for sure.
Why Fishguard
For those who’ve not been, Fishguard is in the beautiful and a very much untouched part of the world, north Pembrokeshire, west Wales. With the Preseli’s in view, the calming feel of looking out at the Cardigan coast, and the aroma of unusual characters that always accompany a coastal town, it all makes for an atmosphere of creative expression and the perfect location for a jazz and blues festival.
The mixture of old traditional pubs, new art venues and converted dusty buildings, add the final touch, to make Aberjazz a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
There’ll be no squinting at far away stages, or trawling around in the mud. Every venue is accessible with an intimate feel. Residents are friendly and eager to share some good times with you.
For a map of the venues and to book tickets visit the main Aberjazz website.
How to get to Aberjazz and where to stay
Fishguard is in north Pembrokeshire, west Wales. Your best bet is to travel by car if you can, and stay in Fishguard or Goodwick where most of the venues are located (you’ll have spectacular views on the way down).
There’re local buses going towards Haverfordwest, Cardgian and St Davids through the day and early evening. Taxis are available (see the Aberjazz website). There is a train station at Goodwick harbour which is around a mile to the centre of Fishguard.
Hotels and b&b’s book up quickly. GoFishguard and the faithful TripAdvisor have a list of places to stay. Visit Pembrokeshire has some good options, you can also contact them for advice. For hostels try Hamilton’s Hostel in Fishguard and Pwll Deri Hostel in Strumble Head. I’ve also noticed a few places to camp, try Yet Y Gors in Fishguard.
Book soon to ensure you get tickets to some of the bigger acts. I hope to see you there!
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Vanessa