The Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival

The Soundtrack to Summer Returns

From 24th July to 2nd August 2026, the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival celebrates its 42nd year with ten unforgettable days of live music across Birmingham, Sandwell, Sutton Coldfield, Solihull, Wolverhampton and beyond.

Recognised as one of the UK’s longest-running and most respected music festivals, Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival transforms the region into a vibrant celebration of jazz, blues, swing, boogie-woogie, big band, gypsy jazz and roots music. From city-centre squares and historic buildings to museums, parks, libraries, restaurants, hotels and music venues, the festival brings world-class live music directly to communities throughout the West Midlands.

This year’s festival features an extraordinary programme of 174 performances, with 162 events offered free of charge, ensuring that great live music remains accessible to everyone. Audiences can enjoy performances from acclaimed artists from across the UK alongside international guests from the United States, France, Estonia, Japan and beyond.

The 2026 programme includes everything from intimate acoustic performances and lively street entertainment to major evening concerts, workshops, special events and unique collaborations. Highlights include the festival’s special Buddy Guy Day celebration on 30th July, honouring the legendary blues guitarist on his 90th birthday and recognising his long-standing connection with Birmingham’s rich blues heritage.

For more than four decades, the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival has proudly championed what it calls “Real Music – Properly Played”, introducing new audiences to exceptional musicians while providing a platform for established artists and emerging talent alike. It has become a cherished annual tradition that attracts thousands of music lovers and delivers what many have described as “the soundtrack to summer.”

Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast, a dedicated blues fan, or simply looking to discover something new, the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival offers a welcoming, exciting and unforgettable experience for all ages.

Join us this summer and discover why the Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival continues to be one of the cultural highlights of the West Midlands.