From June 27 to July 15, 2025, the Tuscan town of Pistoia will once again transform into a global hub for blues, rock, and storytelling with the 44th edition of the Pistoia Blues Festival. Set in the heart of the historic city, the festival offers an unforgettable experience for international travelers looking to combine top-tier live music with local charm, cultural attractions, and summer vibes.
An International Lineup in a Unique Setting
Concerts take place in the stunning Piazza Duomo, one of Italy’s most atmospheric squares, blending Renaissance architecture with the raw energy of live music. This year’s headliners include:
- Beth Hart (June 27), the Grammy-nominated blues powerhouse, in her only Italian summer date.
- Marcus King (July 4), a rising star in blues-rock, known for his soul-stirring guitar work and vocals.
- Blackberry Smoke & Paul Gilbert (July 10), for fans of Southern rock and classic guitar mastery.
- Queens of the Stone Age (July 15), who will close the festival with their explosive rock sound, supported by UK band The Amazons.
A Deep Dive into Italian Songwriting
The festival also showcases Italian musical storytelling with a “Storytellers” series featuring:
- Brunori Sas (July 5), an acclaimed singer-songwriter known for poetic, introspective lyrics.
- Francesco Gabbani (July 9), who rose to fame with catchy songs rich in cultural references.
- Gianna Nannini (July 13), Italy’s rock queen, returning to Pistoia with her European tour Sei nell’anima.
Beyond the Main Stage: Free Concerts and Cultural Connections
Pistoia Blues isn’t just about big names. The “Blues City” series (July 4 – August 8) fills the city’s historic streets and squares with free live performances in jazz, folk, indie, and soul, inviting visitors to explore Pistoia beyond the main venue and soak in its vibrant atmosphere .
On July 12, the festival pays homage to local blues legend Nick Becattini with Un Blues per Nick, a heartfelt, free-entry evening featuring some of Italy’s most respected blues artists .
Combine Music with Art: The Buren Pass
Thanks to a collaboration with Fondazione Pistoia Musei, ticket holders can purchase a discounted Buren Pass, granting access to the exhibition Daniel Buren. Fare, Disfare, Rifare and to all four museum sites, including the historic Palazzo Buontalenti and the Antico Palazzo dei Vescovi. It’s a perfect way to balance music with a deeper dive into contemporary and classical art .
A Festival Rooted in the City’s Soul
A special exhibition titled “Pistoia Blues – Oltre il Palco” will run from June 21 to July 15 at the Palazzo Comunale. It traces the history of the festival through posters, backstage photography, and interactive installations—a great way to understand how deeply music is woven into the city’s identity .
Plan Your Visit
Pistoia is easily reachable by train from Florence (under 1 hour) and offers a more relaxed and authentic Tuscan experience away from the tourist crowds. During the festival, accommodation can book up quickly—early reservations are recommended.
Tickets are available through TicketOne, Ticketmaster, and VivaTicket. Full lineup and info at the Pistoia Blues website.
