Nelson Jazz Winter Festival e-newsletter Launch
Nelson Jazz Festival is returning, and it has some sizzling events to lift our winter spirits. For the first time, the festival has moved to winter, and will draw people to Nelson and Tasman hospitality venues on a long weekend, 22nd to 26th July. Full details on the website.
Headline Acts
Headline acts for the festival include Jazz Embassy, Tiger Moth, NJC Big Band, Riwaka High Rollers, Sun City Soul and Echoes of Jazz (ft Tom Rainey and Tessa Quayle).
Venues
Check out what is on at the wonderful Festival Venues. Ticketed events are at The Boathouse, The Playhouse and The Rutherford.
Open events, featuring a range of bands, will be at Deville Cafe and Bar, Fanny’s Pub, The Honest Lawyer, Lambretta’s, The Vic Public House, the Elma Turner Public Library, Eight Plates and Red 16.
A Focus on Youth
A winter festival allows us to deliver a full youth festival program.
Liftoff: Winter Groove Gala: Big Band
The 2026 Winter Festival kicks off with the Winter Groove Gala, featuring Nelson Jazz Big Band, at the Boathouse and includes a free Dance lesson as well as dining options and bar service.
7pm, Wednesday 22nd at the Boathouse
WINTER GROOVE GALA - BUY TICKETS NOW
Day 2: Echoes of Jazz: Ft Quayle & Rainey
Classy Jazz at the boathouse with a Ronnie Scott's / Birdland club vibe. Echoes of Jazz sees Tessa Quayle and Tom Rainey combine with a great band for a night of silky standards at the Boathouse. Dining options and bar service.
5:30pm, Thursday 23rd at the Boathouse
