Swanage Jazz Festival
July 10 - July 12
The Swanage Jazz Festival is one of the UK’s longest-running jazz festivals, held annually in the seaside town of Swanage on the Jurassic Coast. It began in 1990 and has developed a reputation for presenting a broad range of jazz styles—from traditional New Orleans and swing to contemporary, fusion, and modern British jazz.
What makes it special?
- Multiple venues spread across the town, including concert halls, marquees, pubs, hotels, and outdoor spaces.
- A mix of ticketed headline concerts and a free fringe programme.
- A relaxed seaside atmosphere where audiences can move between performances throughout the day.
- Strong support for both established UK jazz stars and emerging artists.
2026 Festival
The 35th edition is scheduled for 10–12 July 2026 and will feature performances across several venues in Swanage. Early announcements indicate more than 40 artists and bands, with performers including names such as Andy Sheppard, Alan Barnes, Yazz Ahmed, Simon Spillett’s Big Band, Mark Kavuma, Xhosa Cole, and others.