Prague, the European Jazz Capital!
The abundant and diverse Jazzy Spring 2026 is slowly coming to a close—and what a finale it is! The musical offerings this coming weekend are so rich that to see it all, you’d practically need to clone yourself. As always in our city, the quality is world-class. While I have already published a dedicated post on the major festival for female singers, if you’re looking for alternatives, here are a few subjective recommendations I can suggest with a clean conscience. After all, you are reading the only independent and ad-free guide to local music in beautiful Prague!
Saturday Night Choices
I’ll start by making the decision difficult for you. On Saturday, a brilliant alternative to the singers at Jazz Dock is the Libor Šmoldas Organ Trio at U Staré Paní (The Old Lady). This trio is always worth the trip. Jakub Zomer and Libor have a shared musical history you can truly hear. Normally, drummer Dano Šoltis rounds out this powerhouse, but since he is tied up with the singers’ festival, it will be fascinating to see who steps behind the kit to take over the rhythm section.
For those craving a bebop alternative, head to U Malého Glena. Prague’s own multinational and absolutely great collective, Bohemia After Dark, will be entertaining the crowd all Saturday night. If you’ve heard them before, you know the vibe; if not, it’s high time you found out. Their lineup is always a pleasant surprise of top-tier craftsmanship—the only face you won’t see is their guitarist, who will be busy at The Old Lady!
For those craving a bebop alternative, head to U Malého Glena. Prague’s own multinational and absolutely great collective, Bohemia After Dark, will be entertaining the crowd all Saturday night. If you’ve heard them before, you know the vibe; if not, it’s high time you found out. Their lineup is always a pleasant surprise of top-tier craftsmanship—the only face you won’t see is their guitarist, who will be busy at The Old Lady!
The Sunday Escape
On Sunday, the best jazz club in Prague, the one in Beroun: Atelier 57. This is the only venue I regularly recommend that features international artists alongside domestic talent. The concept and unique environment are so special you have to experience them to understand. Our host, percussionist Jesse Simpson, has built an impressive network of musical friends from abroad. At A57, you get to hear the kind of world-class jazz people usually pay “big bucks” for. This Sunday features the Ion Virlan Quintet, a stunning combination of Czech and Moldavian jazz.
Monday’s Fresh Start
If you survive the weekend and want a smooth countdown to the new week, get yourself to Jazz Dock on Monday the 27th. You’ll find a graduation concert by two outstanding talents: Kateřina Hošková and Filip Baader. I have heard Kateřina play and can confidently say the future of Czech jazz is in good hands; I have no doubt Filip meets that same high standard.
As we slowly say goodbye to Jazzy Spring 2026, don’t go too far. Next week, I’ll reveal why Jazzy Summer is going to be just as hot. My “HotSpot for May” drops next week—then you’ll see exactly what I mean! 
