Christchurch Big Band Jazz Festival
2026-10-22 00:00 - 2026-10-26 23:59 (Pacific/Auckland)
For five days the city comes alive with swinging horns, street performances, parades, concerts, workshops and dancing, as thousands of people gather to enjoy one of Christchurch’s most vibrant musical celebrations.
Running since 2006, the festival brings together community bands, school jazz bands, CYJO (Chch Youth Jazz Orchestra), students and professional musicians from across New Zealand for a joyful celebration of the Big Band sound. From classic swing and jazz standards to modern funk and pop, the music spills into the streets, parks, venues, and public spaces of the city.
With over 60 performances by more than 500 musicians in 20+ bands, most of them free and happening throughout the CBD, the festival invites everyone to experience the energy of live music — whether you’re dancing, discovering jazz for the first time, or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
Band info, workshops, performance schedule and and tickets (for the ticketed events) can all be found at chchbigbandfest.com
Note the schedule
