Montreal Jazz Festival
The World's Largest International Jazz Festival • June 25 - July 4, 2026
Festival Guide
About Montreal Jazz Festival
The Montreal Jazz Festival is the world's largest international jazz festival, attracting over 2 million music enthusiasts from around the globe each year. Established in 1980, the festival has become a cornerstone of Montreal's cultural calendar and a premier destination for jazz lovers worldwide. With over 1,000 performances featuring world-renowned musicians and emerging artists, the festival celebrates the rich diversity and innovation within the jazz genre.
The festival spans 10 magical days in late June and early July, transforming Montreal into a vibrant jazz hub. From intimate club performances to grand concert hall shows and energetic outdoor street celebrations, the Montreal Jazz Festival offers experiences for everyone. The festival's commitment to artistic excellence and cultural enrichment makes it an unmissable event for music lovers and travelers seeking authentic Canadian cultural experiences.
Festival Highlights
- 🎵2+ Million annual visitors
- 🎷1,000+ live performances
- 🌍Artists from 80+ countries
- 🎪Indoor & outdoor venues
- 💰Many free outdoor concerts
Jazz Performances & Categories
Performance Types
- Traditional Jazz: Classic styles from the history of jazz
- Contemporary Jazz: Modern interpretations and compositions
- Jazz Fusion: Blending jazz with rock, funk, and world music
- Bebop & Hard Bop: Complex harmonic improvisation
- Experimental Jazz: Avant-garde and innovative performances
Venue Types
- Concert Halls: Premium indoor venues for major performances
- Jazz Clubs: Intimate settings for close-up performances
- Street Stages: Free outdoor performances in public spaces
- Theatre Venues: Large-scale productions and shows
- Hotel Lounges: Relaxed evening performances
Venue Locations
The Montreal Jazz Festival utilizes over 40 venues throughout the city, making performances accessible from downtown to various neighborhoods. Major venues include prestigious concert halls, intimate jazz clubs, and vibrant street stages.
Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier
Premium concert venue hosting major international artists and orchestral performances
Capacity: 3,000+
Club Soda
Intimate venue known for live jazz performances and independent artists
Capacity: 1,200
Outdoor Street Stages
Free performances in public squares and streets throughout the festival
Multiple Locations
Festival Dates & Times
2026 Festival Schedule:
- Festival Dates: June 25 - July 4, 2026
- Opening Night: June 25, 2026
- Closing Night: July 4, 2026
- Total Days: 10 days of performances
Performance Times:
- Daytime Shows: Noon - 6 PM (outdoor free)
- Evening Shows: 7 PM - Midnight
- Night Performances: 8 PM - 2 AM
- Special Events: Throughout the festival
Tickets & Access
The Montreal Jazz Festival offers flexible ticketing options for all budgets. Many outdoor performances and street stage concerts are completely free, making it accessible to everyone. Premium indoor performances and celebrity artist shows require purchased tickets available through the official festival website.
Free Options
- ✓ Outdoor street stage performances
- ✓ Plaza concerts and celebrations
- ✓ Community performances
- ✓ Public square events
Ticket Types
- Single Performance Tickets: Individual show access
- 3-Day Festival Pass: Access to multiple venues
- 10-Day Festival Pass: Complete festival access
- Premium VIP Packages: Exclusive seating and access
Travel Guide to Montreal
Planning to visit Montreal for the Jazz Festival? Before you travel, make sure you have the necessary documentation. If you're traveling from an eTA-eligible country, you'll need a valid Canadian eTA to enter Canada. Check your eTA eligibility and apply in advance to ensure smooth entry.
Getting Around
- Montreal Metro: Fast and efficient subway system
- Buses: Extensive network throughout the city
- Taxis & Uber: Available for convenient travel
- Bixi Bikes: Bike-sharing program for exploring
- Walking: Downtown festivals are pedestrian-friendly
Visitor Tips
- Book Early: Accommodations fill quickly during festival
- Weather: Late June/early July is warm and pleasant
- Currency: Canadian dollars; credit cards widely accepted
- Language: French and English both spoken
- Festivals Pass: Consider multi-day passes for value
Where to Stay in Montreal
Luxury Hotels
Premium downtown accommodations near festival venues with top amenities
$200-500+/night
Mid-Range Hotels
Comfortable accommodations in various neighborhoods with good access
$100-200/night
Budget Options
Hostels, Airbnb, and affordable hotels for budget-conscious travelers
$50-100/night
Nearby Attractions
While in Montreal for the Jazz Festival, explore these amazing attractions and cultural sites to enhance your Canadian travel experience.
Cultural Sites
- Notre-Dame Basilica: Stunning Gothic architecture and historic landmark
- Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: Extensive art collections
- Musée McCord: Canadian history and culture museum
- Saint-Viateur Bagel Shop: Iconic Montreal institution
Outdoor Spaces
- Mount-Royal Park: Beautiful urban park with city views
- Old Montreal: Historic cobblestone streets and river views
- Saint Lawrence River: Waterfront walks and activities
- Botanical Garden: 75 acres of beautiful gardens
Ready to Experience Montreal Jazz?
Start planning your Canadian eTA application today to ensure smooth entry to Canada for the festival.