Jazz & Picnic in the Forest 4

One of Lifepark’s best-loved events, Jazz & Picnic in the Forest, returns by popular demand on 21 September. In the shade of the trees, to the sound of birdsong and the calm rhythm of nature, the festival offers a full programme bringing together the many colours of jazz.

Special artists and bands take the stage all day. Selen Beytekin pays tribute to the legendary soul diva with “A Tribute to Aretha Franklin”. One of the pioneering pianists of Turkish jazz, the Kerem Görsev Quartet (Volkan Hürsever, Ferit Odman & Engin Recepoğulları), brings the classic spirit of jazz together with modern sounds. The legend of Turkish jazz guitar, the Önder Focan Trio, plays with young, powerful vocalist Ceren Temel. And Cuban-born Leyanner Chibas Duporte opens the day with her energetic rhythms.

Guests may bring their own camping chairs, picnic baskets and food, and can also enjoy the food on offer in Lifepark’s large food and drink areas. Children under 12 go free.

General admission tickets and picnic tables for 4 are on sale at early-bird prices for a short time.

13:00 – Leyanner Chibas Duporte
15:00 – Önder Focan Trio feat. Ceren Temel
16:30 – Kerem Görsev Quartet (Volkan Hürsever, Ferit Odman & Engin Recepoğulları)
18:00 – Selen Beytekin – A Tribute to Aretha Franklin

Why not to miss it

• Jazz in the heart of the forest – a day in nature with some of Turkey’s best musicians.
• Real picnic freedom – bring your own picnic basket, camping chairs and blankets. Under TAPDK rules alcoholic drinks may not be brought in; alcoholic drinks are sold on site.
• Plenty to eat – street food and food and drink stalls open all day.
• Family friendly – under-12s go free; play area for children.
• Pets welcome – your four-legged friends can enjoy the festival too.

Leyanner Chibas Duporte
Opening the festival, the Leyanner Chibas Band gets everyone moving with lively Cuban-born Latin rhythms. Percussion, trumpet and trombone blend with salsa, son and Afro-Cuban melodies — ideal for those who want to dance and those looking for a lively start to the day.

Önder Focan Trio feat. Ceren Temel
The doyen of Turkish jazz guitar, Önder Focan, plays in his own style blending classic swing with Anatolian melodies, joined by Ceren Temel with her strong stage presence — a memorable show for jazz lovers and first-timers alike.

Kerem Görsev (Volkan Hürsever & Ferit Odman)
One of Turkey’s best-known jazz pianists, Kerem Görsev, plays with master bassist Volkan Hürsever and drum virtuoso Ferit Odman, bringing the classic spirit of jazz together with modern interpretations.

Selen Beytekin – A Tribute to Aretha Franklin
With a special project dedicated to the queen of soul, Selen Beytekin takes the audience back to the legendary soul stages of the ’60s and ’70s with her powerful voice and heartfelt interpretation.