The 53rd edition of the International Dixieland Festival in Dresden is expecting up to 400,000 fans over the next few days. 42 bands and soloists from seven countries are set to cement Dresden's reputation as the European "Capital of Dixieland" from Sunday. The organizers have announced 277 hours of jazz, 148 of which will be free of charge on the streets and squares of the state capital. A total of 48 concerts are planned on many stages.
Misunderstandings were heard shortly before the festival. As the city of Dresden increased the security requirements for open-air events in view of possible terrorist threats, the organizer was faced with additional costs of 120,000 euros. In order to save the festival, half of the program was adjusted and a deficit of 60,000 euros was accepted. Now "voluntary admission" is to be solicited at the open-air stages.
Organizer sees the state as responsible for anti-terrorism measures
However, the organizers are demanding that political decision-makers take clear responsibility for anti-terrorism measures, financial support and the regulation of liability issues in order to ensure that the festival can go ahead in the future. The organizers believe that the state has a duty to take measures. As an emergency solution, the number of stages for the Jazz Mile on Prager Straße will be reduced this year. Nevertheless, almost all bands are to perform there.
For the Saxon Festival Association as organizer, the spectacle is more than just a jazz festival. For 52 years, it has been a "place of peace and joie de vivre for everyone", they said. "It is an expression of togetherness, a place where people exchange knowledge and experiences and are interested in each other's cultures, regardless of origin, skin color or other differences."
Concerts for all ages and fan groups on offer
In terms of content, the festival wants to stick to its proven strategy of also giving young bands a chance and offering a variety of concert formats. The program includes events for children, families, jazz connoisseurs, dancers and party lovers. People with disabilities are also catered for. Highlights include the Riverboat Shuffle on the Elbe steamers and the final street parade of bands.
On May 17, guests are invited to the "1923 Prohibition Party" - a show by the Norwegian band "Swing'it". A dress code in the style of the 1920s/1930s is expressly encouraged.
Two concerts are designated as birthdays of Dresden formations. The Blue Wonder Jazzband is 50 years old and the Elb Meadow Ramblers are celebrating their 70th birthday.
Festival was already well-known in the West before the fall of the Berlin Wall
The Dixieland Festival Dresden is an established name in the jazz world. It premiered in 1971 with six bands at the Kulturpalast. Even before the fall of the Berlin Wall, it was also known in the West. It is now staged as a huge folk festival. The program also includes a concert for young fans - the "Dixieland ABC for Children". Jazz musicians have been giving a concert for people with disabilities in Altleuben since 1998. It has now matured into a district festival.
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