A Quarter-Century of Jazz in Unionville

The TD Markham Jazz Festival returns for its 29th edition in August 2026, an impressive milestone that reflects decades of commitment to bringing world-class jazz to the newly revitalized village of Unionville at the heart of Markham. Held over three days (August 21-23), the festival has grown to showcase more talent and artists than ever before, with "plans taking shape for an outstanding 2026" edition according to festival organizers.

Diverse Artist Lineup

The 2026 festival brings more than 30 jazz, blues, soul, and reggae artists to multiple stages across Unionville's historic village setting. Headliners include multi-Juno Award winner Caity Gyorgy, who is releasing a new album exploring Frank Loesser's music; legendary reggae and soul singer Jay Douglas & His All-Stars, a key figure in Caribbean and Canadian music history; and the Shuffle Demons, a stellar jazz/funk/blues group. Beyond these marquee names, the lineup spans diverse approaches to jazz and related genres. Featured artists include Ana Lía, blending Latin jazz pop fusion with Dominican influences; pianist Kate Wyatt, a Montreal jazz mainstay of more than 20 years; blues and soul artist Little Magic Sam, performing internationally since age seven; electronic bass innovator Marc Decho; and many others, ensuring there's something for every jazz enthusiast.

The Unionville Experience

The festival takes place on beautiful Main Street in Unionville, a setting that amplifies the experience beyond just the music. Attendees can stroll between stages, enjoy a wine and beer garden, browse craft vendors, and tour nearby art galleries throughout the three-day run. This pedestrian-friendly, multi-venue format creates an immersive experience where discovering new artists feels natural—wandering down a cobblestone street from one performance to the next, soaking in the village atmosphere between sets.

Access and Hospitality

What makes the TD Markham Jazz Festival genuinely welcoming is its commitment to access. All performances are free—admission costs nothing. Free parking is provided along with continuous shuttle service from a nearby location, ensuring attendees don't have to worry about logistics. The festival is organized by volunteers, which adds to its grassroots charm despite its professional scale and artist caliber. This emphasis on community accessibility, combined with the caliber of musicians, has made the festival a draw for thousands of visitors from across southern Ontario and beyond.