Five US Jazz Festivals Happening in 2026

Are you a jazz enthusiast looking for an exciting festival to attend in 2026? The beautiful sound of jazz has reached every part of the United States, so you can easily find a jazz festival or event no matter where you are in the country! Here are the top five jazz festivals happening in the United States in 2026.

NYC Winter Jazzfest

Since its founding in 2005, Winter Jazzfest has cemented a reputation as a hotbed of cultural discovery, presenting new and exciting sounds and scenes throughout New York. This year’s jazzfest will take place from January 8th to 13th and will showcase a wide spectrum of innovative artists while championing music’s role as a force for cultural and social change. Now over two decades strong, the festival is a vital platform for emerging talent, offering artists meaningful exposure! Tickets vary depending on which day you’d like to go or if you’d like a marathon pass: www.winterjazzfest.com A little late to the show? Sign up for their newsletter to get next year's dates right to your inbox!

Las Vegas City of Lights Jazz and R&B Festival

Since 1992, this festival has brought world-class jazz, R&B, and soul to the Entertainment Capital of the World! In its 33rd year, this festival will take place on April 25th and 26th, offering picnic-style seating, free parking five minutes from the venue, and the freedom to roam and visit vendors! General admission tickets start at $322 for a full weekend pass: www.cityoflightsmusicfestival.com 

If you haven’t quite got your jazz fix, stop by Maxan Jazz Club, only minutes from the Las Vegas strip, to enjoy jazz, blues, and Latin-style music in an intimate environment with deliciously fresh sushi created by former Nobu sushi chefs!

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Inspired by the spirit of Mahalia Jackson and the Eureka Brass Band in 1970, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival continues to celebrate Louisiana's culture with the combined fervor of a gospel hymn and the joy of a jazz parade. This festival will take place from April 23rd to 26th and April 30th to May 3rd, featuring artists including Jon Batiste, David Byrne, Trombone Shorty, Herbie Hancock, Dianne Reeves, Irma Thomas, and many more! General admission tickets start at $399 for a 4-day pass: www.nojazzfest.com 

UNESCO’s International Jazz Day

This year, Chicago has been chosen as the host city of UNESCO’s International Jazz Day 2026! Taking place on April 30th, International Jazz Day will celebrate Chicago’s rich jazz history and contributions to music culture. This celebration will culminate in the All-Star Global Concert led by Chicago native and jazz icon Herbie Hancock, and broadcast in 190 countries! Chicago’s selection comes at a powerful moment in time, aligning with the 250th anniversary of the United States and the 100th birthday of Miles Davis! 

Leading up to the concert, a week of education programs, community outreach, and youth engagement will take place citywide, bringing the headline and unifying force of jazz to neighborhoods and schools. Students throughout Chicago will also be invited to participate in the festival through performances, master classes, and workouts! Learn more here: www.jazzday.com 

Monterey Jazz Festival

Founded as a non-profit organization in 1958, Monterey Jazz has committed to celebrating the United States’ cultural heritage by featuring legendary jazz musicians, composers, and young rising stars. The 69th Monterey Jazz Festival takes place from September 25th to 27th, with the lineup being announced and tickets available in early spring 2026! Join their mailing list so you don’t miss a thing: www.montereyjazz.org/festival

Live Jazz in Las Vegas

If you’re looking for something closer to home, Maxan Jazz Club in Las Vegas, Nevada, provides live jazz, blues, and Latin-style performances five nights a week, fresh sushi, and delicious cocktails! Check our event calendar and book a reservation today!