Jazz & Picnic in the Forest VI
One of Lifepark’s best-loved events, Jazz & Picnic in the Forest, returns for its 6th edition on Sunday 30 August 2026. This special day brings together the joy of the 30 August Victory Day holiday, the free spirit of jazz and the calm of nature.
In the shade of the trees, to the sound of birdsong, the festival again offers a full programme bringing together the many colours of jazz. For anyone who wants to spend the last days of summer with loved ones, it is a day of music, picnics and nature to remember for a long time.
Special artists and bands take the stage throughout the day. Cuban-born Leyanner Chibas Duporte opens the day in the forest with her energetic rhythms.
One of the most creative and versatile musicians on the Turkish jazz scene, Alp Ersönmez, brings the free improvisation of jazz together with electronic textures, strong rhythms and high stage energy in his Cereyanlı project. Described as “jazz that smells of dance”, the project features Alp Ersönmez on bass, Engin Recepoğulları on tenor saxophone, Barış Doğukan Yazıcı on trumpet and Ediz Hafızoğlu on drums — a dynamic performance that draws you in from the first note.
One of the pioneering pianists of Turkish jazz, Kerem Görsev, plays with his long-time Quartet: Engin Recepoğulları (saxophone), Volkan Hürsever (double bass) and Ferit Odman (drums). A repertoire of mainly original compositions, strong melodies and elegant arrangements promises a refined jazz experience.
The day closes with Zuhal Olcay, whose depth on stage and powerful interpretations leave a mark as much as her voice. Her timeless songs will make one of the festival’s most special moments.
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.
STAGE TIMES
12:30 – Doors open
14:00 – Leyanner Chibas Duporte
16:00 – Alp Ersönmez – Cereyanlı
17:30 – Kerem Görsev Quartet (Engin Recepoğulları, Volkan Hürsever, Ferit Odman)
19:00 – Zuhal Olcay
Why not to miss it
• Music in the heart of the forest – a day of jazz with some of Turkey’s finest musicians, surrounded by nature.
• A special 30 August gathering – the joy of Victory Day meets the free spirit of jazz and Lifepark’s unique setting.
• 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 are open all day.
• Family friendly – children under 12 go free, and there is a play area for kids.
• Pets welcome – four-legged friends on a lead can join the fun.
