Jazz Festival 2026

Jazz Festival 2026

Are you ready to kick off 2026 with some improvisation and swing? Is this your year to jive to the rhythm of life and connect to the sounds of some of the best jazz around?

If this sounds like you, or if we’ve piqued your interest, mark your calendars for January 16th-24th, 2026. Join the party in Tucson, AZ, for one of the best jazz festivals in the US!

The 2026 Jazz Festival in Tucson is nine days full of music, art, culture, shopping, food, and craft beverages from our extremely eclectic and talented community.

Our Tucson Jazz Festival (2026) will revive your spirits as you experience the energy, passion, and connection that can only be felt at a live jazz event. We bring you the best jazz musicians in the industry and top it off with one-of-a-kind possibilities as you explore our beautiful city!

Enjoy mouth-watering cuisine and craft drinks while you laugh with friends, both old and new. It’s the ultimate opportunity to celebrate community, culture, and jazz.

What’s Coming

We are so excited to be putting together our 2026 jazz festival in Tucson! This year will be bigger than ever, and as always, there will be something here for everyone, from those of you who’ve stumbled upon our event by cosmic will to those of you who are diehard jazz enthusiasts.

The Tucson Jazz Festival in 2026 will be the highlight of your year!

What better way to start 2026 than with the treasures of jazz heritage, music, and culture? Jazz music has deep roots in history and, if you listen, will tell you stories of life, freedom, and soul. It’s music that gives sound to the silent parts of our being.

If you have yet to experience a live jazz music event, it’s time to join the party! Sure, music is great to listen to when you are working, driving, or relaxing, but live music allows you to embrace and live it fully!

It’s connecting with others who have similar experiences; it’s hearing improvisation from world-class artists that you will never hear again; it’s getting that reset you really need (and deserve) as you walk into a new year full of opportunity.

If you are alive and breathing, this jazz festival in 2026 is for you!

Dave Stryker performing at The Fox Theater
Samara Joy - Photographer: C Elliott

Who’s Who Of Our Jazz Festival 2026

The (2026) Tucson Jazz Festival prides itself in being a premier provider of live jazz performances and education directed towards continuing the rich culture and heritage of jazz music.

Our jazz fest in 2026 will continue this tradition as we bring world-class, critically acclaimed jazz musicians to our fabulous venues across the city of Tucson.

You can expect jazz artists from across the spectrum of jazz, from smooth jazz and swing to fusion and contemporary.

Previous festival performers have included the likes of festival legend Trombone Shorty and multi-award and 10-time Grammy award winner Arturo Sandoval.

It’s also important for us to showcase artists that might be newer to the jazz scene but already demonstrate world-class talent. Previous emerging artists to grace our stages have been the New York sensation Sean Mason Quartet and Isaiah J Thompson.

Why Choose the Tucson Jazz Festival?

The city of Tucson is remarkable in its own right. It offers everything from the most delectable culinary adventures to breathtaking excursions into nature. Our 2026 jazz fest only enriches visitors’ visits to the city and adds an extra layer of energy to current residents.

The Tucson Jazz Festival (2026) consistently attracts jazz musicians and performers of the highest caliber from around the world. Participants have the privilege of witnessing live performances by renowned artists, including both established jazz legends and emerging talents. The festival showcases a beautifully diverse range of jazz styles, including traditional, contemporary, fusion, swing, Latin, and more.

Our local vendors, including award-winning restaurants, breweries, hotels, and art galleries, add a unique cultural vibrancy to the 2026 jazz festival. Many of these local vendors partner with us to offer attendees special discounts and other incentives.

The 2026 Tucson Jazz Festival also provides a perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for jazz music. It’s a very special and energetic environment ripe for connection with other new and experienced jazz enthusiasts. There is simply nothing like a music festival when it comes to creating community and establishing new friendships.

What to Expect at Our Jazz Festival 2026

The Best Artists

When it comes to bringing you the best live jazz events, we take it very seriously. We want to allow you to partake in live jazz performances that will fill your soul with life and sound and make you fall in love with the genre, whether this is your first time or your 46th time at a jazz festival (2026)!

Access To New Artists In The Jazz Scene

One of the best things about our 2026 jazz festival is the opportunity to hear new artists bring their fresh talents to the jazz community. With the continued development of technology and the closer connections between international artists, it only makes sense that we are being blessed by new innovations and fusions within the genre of jazz.

Community Connections

We’ve already mentioned the fantastic camaraderie that can be found at a live music event, but it can’t be overstated. When you come to our Tucson Jazz Festival in 2026, you can expect to meet people you enjoy chatting with over a cocktail or discussing the performances you’ve seen as you browse the shelves of a local boutique. Jazz is a genre with deep roots and energy that seeps out through powerful voices and electrifying instruments and into the heart of connection and community. Outside of the music, this community connection is the lifeblood of any jazz festival – past, present, and future.

Education

As much as we love and are passionate about jazz music, we would not be here today if it weren’t for the people before us who passed on this amazing genre’s knowledge, history, and culture.

Our lives would not be the same without it, and continuing this tradition for generations is one of our main objectives.

The Tucson Jazz Festival offers year-round opportunities for music lovers of all ages to experience and develop a heart for jazz. With programs for people aged 5 to 95, we’ve got something for everyone. Our 2026 Jazz Festival is just the cherry on top.

Be sure to keep an eye out for our student performances throughout the event. Who knows – you might be seeing someone who will grace the award ceremony stages in just a few short years.

Emmet Cohen-2022 Education Program
DJF- Mariachi Rayos del Sol de Tucson High

Exploration of Local Restaurants, Shops, and Outdoor Opportunities

Another notable advantage when you come to the 2026 jazz festival in Tucson is our partnership with TucsonFoodie.com. Through our Topazz program, we are honored to partner with local restaurants to bring you signature jazz-festival-inspired drinks and entrees.

For instance, past attendees have indulged in a “Smokin Jazz” cocktail at Crooked Tooth Brewing with Wiracocha Pal Santo porter and Aztec chocolate bitters, vanilla, and smoke finish. Is a “Bitches Brew” more your style with Peach Sour, bitters, Amarena Cherries, and Mesquite Simple Syrup? We’ve featured those too!

After your 2026 jazz festival cocktail, you can enjoy live music on Congress while seeking out a “Bebop Burger” at Elliott’s, complete with cajun shrimp, pepper jack cheese, and remoulade sauce.

While in our beautiful city, you’ll also want to check out our local shopping opportunities and head to the Saguaro National Park to see the remarkable 40-foot cacti up close and personal.

Here’s What Others Are Saying About The Tucson Jazz Festival

“Always a pleasurable time at Tucson Jazz Festival and Century Room. Have heard a cornucopia of performances. All with compelling execution. Food and beverages nice presentation and delivery. Scan their site. I’m sure you will find something you will enjoy. Bring your friend’s, relatives and out of town visitors. This place has an enduing Tucson vibe.” – John Geiger

“This jazz festival just keeps getting better and better. Biggest names in jazz are here. They love the venues and so do we. Best weather in the country to enjoy the jazz, and downtown Tucson is such a vibrant and happening place. Best jazz, Best Artists, Best town and Best venues. What else is there?” – Alan Stein

“The Tucson Jazz Festival has quickly become one of Tucson’s premier events. Not only is it a week-long festival of the best jazz musicians, but it is a year-round quest to bring music and the appreciation of jazz to the Southern Arizona community. It creates an experience for all ages by bringing classic jazz, modern jazz, and experimental jazz together. The festival has something for everyone.

While my first experience with jazz was in high school, I didn’t truly appreciate it until TJF. Through the jazz festival, I have enjoyed some of my favorite artists including Kamasi Washington, and Grace Kelly, and found new favorites like Matthew Whitaker.

The Tucson Jazz Festival is a destination event and I couldn’t be more proud of the board and the staff that brings this event to life.” – Brandi Haga-Blackman

How To Book

The best way to book tickets for the Tucson Jazz Festival 2026 is through our website. You’ll find a link to “purchase tickets,” or you may visit individual artist pages, which give you insightful details on each performer and a direct link to purchase tickets for their live event.

While some performances average $100 or more, there are also several free and nearly free shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for more details and information? Check out these frequently asked questions, and feel free to reach out if there’s something we haven’t answered through our website.

Who is coming to the Tucson Jazz Festival 2026?

The specific lineup for the 2026 Jazz Festival in Tucson has yet to be released. However, you can expect only the best jazz performers in the industry, whether they are new to the scene or have been around for a few decades.

Former artists at our jazz fest include colorful saxophone duo 2Saxy with Grace Kelly & Leo P, Brazilian jazz fusion artist Alex Kautz Brazilian Jazz Quartet, and 10-time Grammy award winner Arturo Sandoval.

Where do I learn more about the artists?

With great talent from all over the world coming to our jazz festival in 2026, we want to make sure you are able to plan out the shows you want to see. Each artist on our soulful lineup will have their own individual artist page.

Each artist’s page includes key facts about who they are and what they are known for within the jazz community. There are also links to listen to a sample of their music and purchase tickets if they fit your particular vibe of jazz.

Why should I choose the Tucson Jazz Festival?

For starters, Tucson is worth visiting even outside of our 2026 jazz fest. We are known as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, have a vibrant and eclectic downtown area, and are right near Saguaro National Park.

The selection of live jazz events at Tucson Jazz Festival 2026 offers an even more enriching travel adventure. With over a decade of experience, we know how to put on an event that will connect you to the music and the community. You will not want to miss this opportunity!

Are there nearby accommodations for the 2026 Tucson Jazz Festival?

Absolutely! In fact, one of our title sponsors has been HSL Properties, owner of many premier hotels in the area. Their properties include the Embassy Suites by Hilton East, The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain, Doubletree Suites by Hilton, the Best Western Tucson Int’l Airport, and many others.

Additional accommodations are available, including the Hotel Congress, one of our 2026 jazz festival venues.

Chief Adjuah-Photo by: C. Elliott

What should I bring to the Tucson Jazz Festival in 2026?

For starters, you’ll want to make sure you pack comfortable shoes and a variety of clothing options that will be appropriate for both casual and formal settings as we have a wide variety of venues and set times.

Other essentials include sunblock, hand sanitizer, a portable phone charger, and cash in case you find a vendor who doesn’t accept credit cards.

Be sure to check the weather before heading to Tucson. January in Tucson is gorgeous and ideal for this type of event. The Tucson Jazz Festival 2026 has both indoor and outdoor venue locations, so be sure to bring layers. Temperatures can range widely between 29 degrees F (4 degrees C) and 64 degrees F (18 degrees C).

Finally, be sure to come with a spirit of adventure and openness to experience some amazing jazz music!

Where do I buy tickets for the Tucson Jazz Festival 2026?

Tickets to our 2026 Tucson Jazz Fest will be available through individual artist pages. You will also find an icon on our homepage that says, “Purchase Tickets Here.”

Who do I contact to learn more about the Tucson Jazz Festival?

The best places to learn more about the 2026 Tucson Jazz Fest are our social media outlets (Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram) and our website. You can also email us at info@tucsonjazzfestival.org or call us at 520-762-6260.

What are the dates for New Orleans Jazz Fest 2026?

At the time of this writing, we don’t know the dates yet for the 2026 New Orleans Jazz Fest. However, if you’re ready to plan – the 2026 Tucson Jazz Festival will be held January 16th-24th, 2026. It’s a perfect time to be in Tucson as temperatures are cool enough to need a sweater or light jacket but warm enough to leave the serious winter gear home.

Jon Batiste - Photographer: C Elliot

What is the biggest jazz festival?

You might think that the title for the biggest jazz fest goes to Jazz Fest (New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival), but the Montreal International Jazz Fest has it beat by a long shot. With an average of over 2 million attendees yearly, this Canadian powerhouse fest holds the 2004 Guinness World Record for the largest jazz festival.

While this huge event may sound like a good time for those who love crowds, we invite you to the 2026 Tucson Jazz Fest if you are looking for something less overwhelming but still with powerful energy and excellent jazz performances!

What is the best jazz festival in the US?

The 2026 Tucson Jazz Festival, of course (at least we think so)!

There is also The Newport Jazz Festival in Newport, Rhode Island, which is often credited with being the “first American jazz festival.” Beginning in 1954, this festival continues to be a summer hit.

What is the most important jazz festival in the world?

From the perspective of size and influence, the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal is considered quite important. This festival is known for its passion for music; something we also appreciate and understand here at the Tucson Jazz Festival! Jazz music is our passion and lifeblood, and we’re so excited for you to see for yourself at our jazz festival in 2026!

Where are the best free jazz festivals in the world?

In addition to the 2026 jazz festivals in Detroit, Chicago, and our free shows in Tucson, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival also boasts free admission, with the ability to purchase VIP options. Held over Memorial Day weekend, this festival kicks off with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition!

What is the largest free jazz festival in the world?

There are plenty of free and low-cost 2026 jazz festivals (including many of our live events at TJF), but the largest free jazz festival in the world is currently the Detroit Jazz Festival. This four-day event attracts between 325,000 and 350,000 people each year.