Derry gets in the groove for upcoming Jazz Festival

The longer days are fast approaching, and that can only mean one thing, it’s almost time for the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, which this year runs from May 2 to May 6.

Now in its 23rd year, the event attracts tens of thousands of music fans each year – and most of the events are free, making live music and quality performance accessible to everyone.

Looking ahead to the event, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, said she was looking forward to a thrilling weekend of top entertainment.

“The Jazz Festival weekend is one of the most vibrant and exciting weekends in the entertainment calendar with so much to do and see throughout the festival,” she said.

“I’m so looking forward to welcoming both visitors and performers from all over the world to enjoy some first-class hospitality and entertainment.

“The festival showcases all that’s great about Derry – our talent, our warmth and our welcome – which brings people back year on year to the city. It’s going to be a fabulous celebration with something for everyone to enjoy.”

This year’s festival will feature hundreds of performers who travel from far and wide to take part in the event, as well as an impressive array of homegrown talent. Visitors can look forward to some exciting new acts, as well as their regular favourites with more details to be revealed in the coming weeks with the launch of the Guinness Jazz Festival Trail.

Jazz festival co-ordinator with Council, Andrea Campbell, said, “It’s all happening as we put the final preparations in place for this year’s event. The programme is ready and the stage is almost set for the 23rd outing of the jazz festival. We have some fantastic new acts featuring this year and we’re looking forward to welcoming back our regulars who have a dedicated fanbase here.

“The festival footprint extends right across the city and the event is vital to the local economy, with concerts, workshops, and al fresco performances taking place in numerous venues. Where else would you get to enjoy such a wide variety of free entertainment, with something to suit all ages?”

Details of this year’s Jazz Festival programme can be found at cityofderryjazzfestival.com

For regular updates follow the City of Derry Jazz festival on Facebook Instagram and X @derryjazzfest.