Lugano lights up under the summer sun, transforming into an open-air stage where art and culture meet in a symphony of unforgettable events. The Lugano LongLake Festival, now in its fifteenth edition, continues to thrive, confirming its vocation as a "Summer City Festival" that brings the city's most iconic venues to life. After an opening weekend of world-class jazz, the energy shows no sign of abating, with a program that promises to satisfy every taste, from lovers of great music to families, including theater and urban art enthusiasts.
Lugano LongLake Festival: Global rhythms and Italian stars at Ciani Park
The heart of the Lugano LongLake Festival beats strongly in Parco Ciani, where from July 15th to 17th three evenings of the most captivating sounds will unfold. On July 15th, the atmosphere will be vibrant with reggae legends Morgan Heritage and the energetic Anthony B, ready to get the audience dancing with their unmistakable rhythms. The following evening, July 16th, it will be a journey into soul and R&B with the enchanting voice of Grammy Award-winning Ledisi and the captivating melodies of Thee Sacred Souls, a Californian band that has captivated millions of listeners. Rounding out the three-night event, on July 17th, the Italian indie scene will take center stage with the flair of Venerus, the unique sounds of centomilacarie, and the elegance of Ginevra, three artists redefining the contemporary music landscape.
Blues to Bop: 35 Years of Musical Emotion
The 35th edition of Blues to Bop, a heartfelt tribute to the history and many facets of the blues, takes place on July 18th and 19th. Two days will feature internationally renowned artists and true pillars of the genre. Among the most anticipated guests is the iconic Edoardo Bennato, an institution in Italian music with his unmistakable blend of blues, rock, and songwriting. He will be joined by Swiss blues virtuoso Philipp Fankhauser, innovative multi-instrumentalist Joachim Cooder, the energetic Gennaro Porcelli, and harmonica legend Billy Branch. The free concerts in Piazza Manzoni, Punta Foce, and Rivetta Tell will offer a unique opportunity to delve into the roots of a genre that never ceases to excite, with unmissable events such as talks with Philipp Fankhauser and Billy Branch, delving into the history of the blues.
A mosaic of events beyond music
The Lugano LongLake Festival's calendar is a veritable kaleidoscope of experiences, well beyond the main concerts. On July 14th, for example, "Elements" will take center stage, an immersive performance of dance, music, and visual arts by UnKnown Company, promising a unique sensory experience at the Teatro FOCE. On July 20th, a double date will be held: "Storie di lago," a talk-show exploring the connection with the local area through the voice of Francesco Pellicini, and "Un bès – Antonio Ligabue," the intense monologue by Mario Perrotta, one of the most influential voices in contemporary Italian theater.
There's no shortage of activities for the little ones, with the lively Family Village in Ciani Park, an oasis of games and books, and a series of daily shows ranging from physical theater and clowning to shadow theater and music. Highlights include "Pizz'n'zip" (July 16), "Woow!" (July 18), and "Sphera" (July 20), designed to entertain and stimulate the imagination of young spectators.
Urban art continues to leave its mark on the city's walls with the site-specific installation by renowned duo Nevercrew on Via Foce, a work that invites reflection on the relationship between humanity and nature. For those wishing to explore this art form more deeply, the Street Art Tours (July 13, 14, 20, and 21) will offer the opportunity to discover the stories and anecdotes behind the works that enrich Lugano's urban landscape.
And for those who love shopping and curiosity, the lakeside will host the Ticino Tour Market on July 18th and 19th, featuring the best local crafts, creative second-hand goods, and traditional products, in a lively and festive atmosphere.
