A Month-Long Celebration of Local Jazz Talent

The London Jazz Festival celebrates the vibrant local jazz community of London, Ontario, bringing together musicians and fans for a month-long celebration each April. In 2026, the festival expands its reach with 34 events featuring 36 local jazz groups performing across 11 venues throughout the city, making it an accessible entry point into the region's jazz scene. Presented by the Jazz Association London and sponsored by Third Bird Legal, the festival balances ticketed concerts with free community performances, ensuring that whether you're a dedicated jazz enthusiast or casually curious, there's an entry point at the London Jazz Festival.

Venues Across the City

Rather than consolidating into a single location, the festival transforms London into a jazz destination by embracing the city's diverse neighborhoods and cultural spaces. Performances take place at historic sites like Aeolian Hall in Old East Village and St James Westminster Church in Wortley Village, alongside contemporary restaurants and breweries. Blake's Bistro & Bar hosts evening sets, while Peppermoon Restaurant and West Social offer regular performances. Toboggan Brewing Company, which became a destination for live jazz in London following their initial jazz events, now hosts regular performances. The Richmond Tavern, built in 1852 and one of the oldest surviving hotel-taverns in Southern Ontario, features Monday performances. Wolf Performance Hall—home to Ontario's longest running free admission jazz series—provides concert-hall settings for special ticketed events and the festival finale. CherryHill Village Mall offers family-friendly Saturday afternoon performances in its food court.

Diverse Programming and Community Access

The festival features local jazz musicians performing in ensembles ranging from solo performers and trios to larger groups. Notable events include Jazz for Kids (and adults) at St James Westminster Church and performances by the Baddest Big Band. The lineup encompasses tributes such as David Blamires' Tribute to Chet Baker, original compositions, and styles ranging from traditional jazz to contemporary interpretations. Five special ticketed concerts on April 1, 14, 21, 24, and 30 offer focused showcase opportunities alongside the broader month-long programming, with free tickets available for attendees. The partnership with the London Public Library's Wolf Performance Hall and collaborations with the London Musicians Association reflect growing community support for the festival as a cultural institution.