Baloise Session 2026
Intimate club-style concerts in Basel: major international stars in a seated, candle-lit hall — a format unique in Europe.
Location : Bâle (Basel-Stadt) · Usual period : October–November
This edition
Unique boutique music festival in Basel from October 16 to November 4, 2026. Intimate concerts in small venues with exclusive atmosphere inspired by legendary New York music clubs. Diverse musical programming: rock, pop, soul, jazz, world, blues and more, each evening with specific musical theme.
The festival
The Baloise Session is a boutique music festival held in Basel, Switzerland, known for its distinctive and intimate concert format. It recreates the atmosphere of legendary New York music clubs, with audiences seated at candlelit club tables in a small-capacity venue. This setup is designed to foster a close and immersive connection between the audience and the international music stars performing, offering what the festival describes as a sensual intimacy and an exhilarating proximity to the artists.
The festival's programming is diverse, with each evening dedicated to a specific musical style. The lineup spans rock, pop, soul, jazz, world music, blues, and singer-songwriter performances, among other genres. The 2026 edition is scheduled to run from October 16 to November 4, with concerts starting at 8:00 PM. The announced program includes themed nights such as an opening night with Mark Forster and Kamrad, a 'Hitmasters' evening with Nile Rodgers & Chic and Rick Astley, a 'Pure Voices' night with Calum Scott and Tori Kelly, and a 'True American Roots' evening with Joe Bonamassa and Brandy Clark, among others. Other featured artists across the program include Erykah Badu, James Arthur, Stephan Eicher, and Picture This.
The festival also highlights its history through an artist archive, noting that legends like Nina Simone and James Brown, as well as contemporary stars such as P!nk and Alicia Keys, have performed there in the past. The event is presented by Helvetia, and its organizers emphasize the unique moments when musicians and the audience become one, a magic they aim to deliver at every concert.
Getting there, on site
The Baloise Session takes place in Basel, Switzerland, from October 16 to November 4, 2026. Concerts are scheduled for specific evenings during this period, with shows beginning at 8:00 PM. Tickets for individual concerts are available for purchase, and the festival encourages interested attendees to sign up for its newsletter to receive information about the advance sale launch and the announced artists.
For those seeking an enhanced experience, the festival offers a VIP Club platform that combines musical performances with culinary highlights, providing a package for enjoying a concert evening with clients, business partners, or friends. The festival also mentions a camping and accommodation option, though no specific details are provided in the source.
