Jardins do Marquês Festival: Baco Exu do Blues Leads Lineup
The lush landscapes of Oeiras are set to transform into a musical haven today as Brazilian sensation Baco Exu do Blues kicks off the sixth edition of the Jardins do Marquês – Oeiras Valley Festival. This prestigious event, running from June 25 to July 6, promises an eclectic blend of international stars, rising Portuguese talent, and legendary performers across two stages.
A Visionary Opening Night
Opening the main stage tonight is Baco Exu do Blues, hailed by organizers Música no Coração as “one of the most influential, visionary, and restless artists in contemporary Brazilian music.” Before the headliner takes the stage, audiences will be treated to the intimate sounds of Lucas Ortet, a Portuguese social media breakout star known for his soul-stirring voice and guitar skills.
On the second stage, the festival spotlights Libra, an emerging powerhouse in the Portuguese scene whose music blends conscious hip-hop with alternative R&B and experimental soul.
Brazilian Rock and Global Jazz
The festival resumes on June 30 with a heavyweight Brazilian double-bill. Arnaldo Antunes, a titan of Brazilian poetry and music, will share the main stage with the iconic rock band Raimundos. Portugal’s own The Twist Connection will anchor the second stage.
As the calendar turns to July, the genre-shifting continues:
- July 1: A generational rock celebration featuring the legendary punk-rockers The Stranglers and Portugal’s Peste & Sida.
- July 2: A night dedicated to the avant-garde, featuring jazz virtuoso Esperanza Spalding and Júlio Resende with the Fado Jazz Ensemble.
Celebrating Lusophone Roots and Comedy
One of the festival’s most anticipated evenings occurs on July 5, marking International Cape Verde Day. Dino D’Santiago will lead a powerful tribute to Cape Verdean identity alongside Mayra Andrade and the Batukadeiras. The main stage will also feature a tribute to Super Mama Djombo, honoring the colossal musical legacy of Guinea-Bissau.
Music isn’t the only draw this year. On July 4, the festival pivots to comedy with a star-studded lineup headlined by Portuguese humor legends Herman José and Eduardo Madeira.
Grand Finale
The festival draws to a close on July 6 with a focus on soul and indie-pop. Performances include the acclaimed American soul trio Thee Sacred Souls and French indie favorites Oracle Sisters, with Portuguese group Ela Jaguar closing out the second stage.
Tickets for the Jardins do Marquês Festival range from 26 to 50 euros per day, offering attendees three concerts per night in a unique historical setting.
Image: Pexels – Bárbara Oliveira
