Cheltenham Jazz Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026

Cheltenham's six-day celebration of world-class live music, Cheltenham Jazz Festival, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this April and May 2026 – and tickets are on sale now.

By Chloe Gorman  |  Published
Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026
Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, Cheltenham Jazz Festival brings big names and the most exciting emerging artists to the town for a six-day celebration.

Marking its 30th anniversary in 2026, Cheltenham Jazz Festival is back for a six-day celebration of the genre and its influence this spring.

Featuring a host of high-profile names alongside some of the most exciting emerging artists from all over the world, SoGlos rounds up what to expect...

When and where is Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026?

Cheltenham Jazz Festival takes place from Wednesday 29 April until Monday 4 May 2026 at various venues across the town, including the festival village at Montpellier Gardens, Parabola Arts Centre and Dunkertons

Who's on the lineup at Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026?

Big names on this year's lineup includes Jessie J, Jack Savoretti, 10cc, James Morrison, Joss Stone, Van Morrison, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Orchestra, Georgia Cécile, Gentleman's Dub Club, Courtney Pine and many more. 

New guest curator, Grammy-winner Corinne Bailey Rae, is curating a series of specially commissioned performances including Lady Blackbird, Gotts Street Park, Ladies of Midnight Blue, Emma Jean-Thackray and Tinariwen. 

The festival is marking Miles Davis's centenary with an orchestral tribute from Guy Barker Big Band with the BBC Concert Orchestra and special guest performers. 

And there's lots to enjoy on the free programme, too – from a packed lineup on the Free Stage at the festival village which spans everything from school jazz bands, funky ensembles and DJ sets, to the ever-popular late night jam sessions at Hotel Du Vin where you're bound to spot some famous faces letting their hair down.

How to get tickets to Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026?

Tickets for Cheltenham Jazz Festival are on general sale from Wednesday 4 March 2026 via the Cheltenham Festivals website.

Event

Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2026

Venue

Various venues across Cheltenham

Dates

Wednesday 29 April to Monday 4 May 2026

Times

Times vary per event

Admission

Ticket prices vary per event

Telephone

01242 850270

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