About

Notodden Blues Festival (NBF) is Norway’s largest blues festival and is recognized as one of Europe’s most acclaimed music events. Since its inception in 1988, the festival has grown from a small local event into a towering institution within both the Norwegian and international music industries. Held annually in Notodden, Telemark, the festival brings together between 30,000 and 40,000 attendees and music lovers from around the globe every year.

The Festival Experience: From Intimate Club Shows to Main Stage Concerts

Set in welcoming surroundings in the heart of downtown Notodden, the festival offers a rich and diverse program tailored for all age groups:

  • Main Stage Concerts: Experience world-leading blues, soul, and rock stars on the biggest stages.
  • Intimate Club Shows: Close-up and atmospheric music experiences featuring both local talents and international gems.
  • Unique Venues: Scenic blues cruises on Lake Heddalsvannet and atmospheric church concerts.
  • Kids, Youth, and Families: Dedicated initiatives such as Little Steven's Blues School (a music workshop for youth), along with tailored family events.

An Internationally Award-Winning Music Festival

Notodden Blues Festival enjoys a stellar reputation far beyond Norway's borders. In 2007, the festival was granted official national status as Norway's national hub festival (Knutepunktfestival) for blues.

In 2010, the festival was honored with the prestigious "Keeping The Blues Alive Award" for Best International Blues Festival, awarded by The Blues Foundation in Memphis, Tennessee. Widely considered the blues world's equivalent of an Academy Award, this honor cemented the festival's status as the "World's Best Blues Festival."

World-Class Stars and a Thriving Local Blues Scene

Notodden boasts a vibrant, active blues community all year round. The festival takes great pride in showcasing both global legends and rich local traditions.