York Jazz Fest: Four days, six venues, one city
THE inaugural York Jazz Fest will run from October 1 to October 4.
Spanning four days of live performances, discovery and community, the festival will highlight the full spectrum of jazz, ranging from timeless, classic standards to forward-thinking, contemporary sounds.
Designed to celebrate both Yorkshire and national talent and to promote grassroots venues, the new event will take place at five cultural and music spaces: The Phoenix, George Street; The Arts Barge, Foss Basin; Angel On The Green, Bishopthorpe Road; Young Thugs Studio, Ovington Terrace; The Winning Post, Bishopthorpe Road, and Pop-Up Festival Site at Bishopthorpe Road Car Park.
The festival will reach its climax on Sunday, October 4 with an all-day grand finale at the specially constructed Pop-Up Festival Site, transforming the car park into an open-air hub of live music on the main stage, complementing headline jazz acts with street food vendors, craft beers and wine and spirits bars.
“Our aim is to bring world-class live music directly into the heart of York’s community while showcasing the incredible heritage and intimate charm of our independent venues,” says festival promoter Beppe Lombardo. “Whether you are a lifelong jazz enthusiast or just looking to discover something new, York Jazz Fest offers something for everyone.”
The full 2026 festival programme, line-up announcements and ticketing details will be released in the coming days. For updates, early access to tickets and venue information, visit: www.yorkjazzfestival.com or follow @YorkJazzFest on Instagram.