When people think of Croatia's summer festivals, they usually picture the Adriatic coast and bustling seaside cities. Yet, for the ninth consecutive year, the small town of Trilj is proving that unforgettable festival experiences don't have to happen by the sea.

Taking place on 24 and 25 July 2026, the 9th Thrill Blues Festival has grown into one of the most distinctive blues events in this part of Europe. What makes it truly special is not only an outstanding line-up featuring internationally acclaimed musicians, but also the unique atmosphere that welcomes dedicated blues fans, curious first-time visitors, families and anyone looking for a different kind of summer escape.

At a time when many festivals follow familiar formulas, Thrill Blues Festival remains committed to a different vision - one where outstanding live music, education and community come together in an authentic, welcoming setting. This year's edition once again transforms Trilj into a meeting place for generations, cultures and musical traditions through two days of concerts, workshops and unforgettable live performances.

Friday: From First Blues Steps to an American Blues Legend

The festival opens on Friday, 24 July, with educational programmes at the City Cinema. Young visitors will discover the origins of the blues through the interactive "Blues for Children" workshop, learning about its rhythms, instruments and the stories behind one of the world's most influential musical genres.

The programme continues with the Thrill Blues School, offering participants a rare opportunity to learn directly from accomplished musicians. Tomi and Miha will lead bass guitar and drum workshops, while acclaimed guitarist Igor Leonardi will introduce participants to the art of blues improvisation and expressive guitar playing.

As evening falls, the festival moves to Trilj City Park, where audiences will embark on a musical journey through the many faces of the blues. Performances by Lima Wick & Stuttering Bob, Sunnysiders, and Wacky Professors will build anticipation for one of the festival's headline performances - American blues powerhouse Robert Finlay.

With his raw, soulful and deeply authentic sound, Finlay promises to deliver one of the defining performances of this year's festival.

The evening concludes with the traditional Welcome Jam Session, a spontaneous gathering of musicians on stage that has become one of the festival's signature experiences, creating magical moments that can never be rehearsed or repeated.

Saturday: International Collaboration and a Spectacular Finale

The second festival day continues in the spirit of learning, creativity and international musical exchange. Once again, Thrill Blues School welcomes participants eager to learn from distinguished musicians from across Europe.

Italian musician Marco Bartoccioni will introduce audiences to the unique sound of the lap steel guitar, Jolly Jumper will reveal the secrets of blues harmonica, while renowned Norwegian pianist Dr. Bekken will guide participants through the rich heritage and contemporary styles of blues piano.

Saturday evening brings the festival to its peak. After an opening performance by Beg, the stage belongs to the Thrill Blues School Band, bringing together workshop participants and their mentors in a performance that perfectly reflects the festival's commitment to education, collaboration and community.

Marco Bartoccioni's concert will be followed by a special joint performance from Dr. Bekken and Jolly Jumper, before the festival reaches its grand finale with Australian guitar sensation Taj Farrant. Widely regarded as one of the most exciting young blues - rock artists of his generation, Farrant has earned international acclaim for his remarkable virtuosity and electrifying stage presence.

The festival will conclude with the traditional Closing Jam Session, an emotional finale celebrating the very essence of the blues - freedom of expression, shared experience and the joy of making music together.

More Than Just a Music Festival

Over the years, Thrill Blues Festival has grown far beyond the boundaries of a traditional music event. It has become a place where generations meet, ideas are exchanged and local enthusiasts share the stage with internationally acclaimed artists.

Perhaps that's why, in recent years, festival-goers have been asking a different question. Not, "Do you like blues?" but rather, "Have you ever been to Thrill?"

Because what happens in Trilj every July is no longer simply a festival dedicated to one musical genre. It is an event that proves that small towns can create extraordinary cultural experiences - authentic enough to attract visitors, inspiring enough to keep them coming back, and memorable enough to stay with them long after the final note has faded.

The 9th Thrill Blues Festival will take place on 24 and 25 July 2026 in Trilj, Croatia. Admission to all festival programmes is completely free, while full programme details and additional information will be available through the festival's official communication channels.

The project has been financed through the Fund for Tourism Underdeveloped Areas and the Continental Tourism Development Programme, based on a decision of the Croatian National Tourist Board’s Tourism Council, following the recommendation of a committee composed of representatives of the Croatian National Tourist Board, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Croatia, and members of the Tourism Council of the Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board.