Nelson Winter Jazz Festival 2026
DATE: 19th March 2026
Nelson Jazz Club will hold a new format Jazz festival, this winter. The festival will run in venues around Nelson city and region from 22 to 26 July.
Nelson Jazz Club have historically run a summer festival in late December / early January. This has been very successful, bringing musicians from around the world and across New Zealand to the Nelson/Tasman region to promote jazz and its various genres. After many years considering the festivals position, Nelson Jazz Club have decided to move the festival towards the winter period. The reasons are two-fold.
Firstly, one of our core aims is to encourage and provide opportunities for our youth jazz musicians to learn and perform. Relocating the festival to winter will provide an opportunity for our youth to engage in performances and getting expert feedback as a platform for the School Bands to head away to regional competitions.
Secondly, we want to work with local hospitality businesses within the region to provide a vibrant, engaging experience during winter.
Nelson College and Nelson Girls College Jazz Band
Be Part of Nelson Winter Jazz Festival 2026
The Nelson Jazz Club offer an open-call programme where artists and venues can register their jazz-inspired happenings to be part of the Nelson Winter Jazz Festival 2026. Events in the City Line-up, plus any Food and Drink Offerings will be promoted through the Nelson Winter Jazz Festival marketing and media channels.
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 22nd March 2026
MUSICIAN SIGNUP
Are you keen to perform at the Nelson Winter Jazz Festival?
Click the button below to submit an expression of interest for your; solo act, small or large ensemble or big band.
VENUE SIGNUP
Do you want to host a gig but not sure where to start?
Would you be keen to host youth bands, local bands or visiting bands?
Would you be interested in hosting a music gig, a dining experience or a dance?
Click the button below to submit your expression of interest to join the Festival team.
VOLUNTEERS AND HELPERS
Are you a supporter of Jazz and keen to be involved in the Nelson Winter Jazz Festival 2026 ?
Could you help with finding sponsorship ? handing out posters ? ushering ?
Click the button below to submit your expression of interest to join the Festival team.
