Jazz on the Water: Experience the 2026 Rochester International Jazz Festival Along Lake Ontario’s Shores

The 2026 Rochester International Jazz Festival (June 19-27) returns to Lake Ontario’s southern shore for its 23rd edition, bringing major changes that make it more accessible and exciting than ever.

Whether you’re planning a lakeside vacation rental stay or a weekend getaway to the nearby Finger Lakes wine country, this festival offers the perfect blend of cultural richness and waterfront tranquility.

Book your Lake Ontario accommodation through Lake.com and make this jazz festival the centerpiece of your ultimate lakeside cultural experience.

What Makes 2026 Different: Fresh Sounds and New Experiences

This year’s festival introduces changes that transform how you’ll experience jazz along Rochester’s waterfront. As Lake Ontario’s waters warm and early summer settles over the Finger Lakes region, you’ll find fresh ways to enjoy nine days of music in this historic lakeside city.

Kodak Hall Joins the Club Pass Series – The Biggest News of 2026

For the first time in festival history, Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre becomes a Club Pass venue! You’ll now enjoy 12 exclusive Club Pass shows featuring 10 marquee artists over six nights (June 19-24). This means your Club Pass grants access to performances in one of Rochester’s most prestigious concert halls, where 2,100 music fans can experience intimate 60-minute sets at 7 PM and 9:30 PM. Club Pass holders get early entry, and if you don’t have a pass, you can still catch these shows for $40 cash at the door.

New 1-Day Club Pass Option

Can’t commit to multiple days? The festival now offers a flexible 1-Day Club Pass for $79.53 (including service fees). Use it as many times as you want on your chosen day to hop between venues and catch up to 20 shows. Share it with a friend throughout the day since only one person can use it at a time.

Rochester Regional Health Takes the Lead

The festival welcomes Rochester Regional Health as the new title sponsor, replacing CGI. This partnership strengthens the festival’s commitment to bringing world-class music to the Lake Ontario region.

Earlier Start Date

Mark your calendars! The 2026 festival kicks off one day earlier than usual, starting Friday, June 19 (rather than June 20), giving you even more time to soak in the sounds.

By the Numbers: What to Expect in 2026

As the Rochester Jazz Festival celebrates its 23rd edition, here’s what awaits you:

9 Days of continuous live jazz and entertainment (June 19-27, 2026)
285+ Shows featuring internationally acclaimed artists and local favorites
18 Venues spread across downtown Rochester, each offering a unique atmosphere
1,750+ Artists from around the world
174 Club Pass Shows at 10 Club Pass venues
100+ Free Concerts on outdoor stages
200,000+ Attendees expected based on recent years

From intimate church settings to the open-air Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, the Rochester Jazz Festival offers a range of experiences that let you explore different sounds and spaces throughout your stay. It’s the ultimate destination for jazz fans and curious newcomers alike, all set against the backdrop of Lake Ontario’s vibrant waterfront community.

Confirmed Artists for 2026: The Lineup So Far

The festival announces artists in waves, with the full lineup revealed by March 10, 2026. Here’s who’s been confirmed so far:

Ticketed Headliner

Chris Botti – Wednesday, June 25, 8 PM at Kodak Hall (his sixth appearance at the festival). Tickets range from $74.39 (Balcony) to $125.84 (Boxes).

Club Pass Series Artists (Kodak Hall and other venues)

Hiromi’s Sonicwonder – The dynamic Japanese pianist brings her electrifying fusion style
Arturo Sandoval – The legendary Cuban trumpeter and GRAMMY winner
Harvey Mason’s Chameleon – Led by the iconic drummer
Bill Frisell Trio – The guitarist returns for his 11th festival appearance
Bob James Quartet – Smooth jazz legend and founding member of Fourplay
Cecile McLorin Salvant – The acclaimed vocalist and multiple GRAMMY winner
Danilo Perez Trio – The Panamanian pianist and MacArthur Fellow
Celebrating John Coltrane with Joe Lovano + Special Guests – A tribute to the jazz giant
The Headhunters – Herbie Hancock’s legendary funk-jazz ensemble
The Soul Rebels – New Orleans brass band energy
The Empress – Performing at Kilbourn Hall
Allan Harris Quartet – At Montage Music Hall
Delight Trio – Dawn Clement, Buster Williams, and Matt Wilson at Max of Eastman Place
Djabe – Returning for their 8th festival appearance at Innovation Theater
Catherine Russell – The vocalist makes her 9th festival appearance

More artists will be announced throughout January and February, so sign up for the festival’s free e-newsletter at RochesterJazz.com to get updates and early access to ticket sales.

Planning Your 2026 Festival Experience

Key Dates and Schedule Details

Festival Dates: June 19-27, 2026 (9 days)
Opening Shows: 7 PM nightly
Kodak Hall Club Pass Shows: 7 PM and 9:30 PM (June 19-24)

To make the most of your Lake Ontario jazz getaway, download the official RIJF app (coming soon for 2026). This tool lets you explore the full lineup, customize your schedule, and get alerts when shows start. You won’t miss a beat!

Pro Tips for First-Time Festival-Goers:

Shows fill up quickly, especially popular Club Pass venues. Arrive 30-45 minutes early.
Doors open 30 minutes before each show.
Club Pass holders get early entry to Kodak Hall shows.
All seating at Club Pass shows is general admission, first-come, first-served.
The festival runs rain or shine, so check the weather and dress accordingly.

Tickets and Passes: Your Options for 2026

Club Pass – The Best Value

The shareable Club Pass is your ticket to maximum flexibility and savings. Choose from three options:

9-Day Club Pass (Access all 174 shows across all nine days)

Early Bird (through Dec 31, 2025): $398.52 (including $24.52 service fees)
Regular (Jan 1-Mar 9, 2026): $420.13 (including $26.13 service fees)
Late/At Festival (Mar 10+): $441.74 (including $27.74 service fees)

3-Day Club Pass (Pick any three days)

Pricing follows similar tier structure
Includes early entry to Kodak Hall Club Pass shows on your selected days

NEW! 1-Day Club Pass (Perfect for day-trippers)

$79.53 (including $9.53 service fees) – available through the festival
Use it all day on any single festival day
Great for Lake Ontario visitors extending their stay for just one day of jazz

All Club Passes Are Shareable!
Only one person can use a Club Pass at a time to enter venues, but you can share or transfer your pass with friends or family. Split the cost and take turns exploring different venues throughout the day.

Individual Show Tickets

Don’t need a pass? Pay at the door:

Most Club Pass Venues: $30 cash
Kilbourn Hall: $35 cash
Kodak Hall Club Pass Shows: $40 cash

Where to Buy

Online: RochesterJazz.com/tickets
Phone: (585) 454-2060
In Person: RIJF Ticket Shop at 100 East Avenue (corner of East Avenue and Gibbs Street) – opens June 2026

You must redeem your Club Pass ticket for an actual pass and lanyard at the Ticket Shop before attending shows. Tickets cannot be redeemed at venues.

Venues and Stages: Where the Music Happens

The festival’s European-style format means you can park once and walk to all 18 venues in downtown Rochester. Here’s where you’ll find the music:

Club Pass Venues (10 total, 174 shows)

NEW! Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre
The crown jewel of Rochester’s music scene now joins the Club Pass series for the first time. This stunning 2,100-seat theater features 12 shows by 10 marquee artists June 19-24. Shows at 7 PM and 9:30 PM. Handicapped entrance at 26 Gibbs Street. This is where GRAMMY-winning legends and rising stars perform in an acoustically perfect space.

Kilbourn Hall, Eastman School of Music
An intimate 444-seat venue known for its exceptional acoustics. $35 at the door or included with your Club Pass. This classic recital hall brings you close to the music.

Max of Eastman Place
A popular venue that hosts multiple shows nightly. Expect lines, but the “Save Time in Line” system helps manage crowds for opening shows.

Hatch Recital Hall
222-seat capacity with wheelchair access via ramp at 433 East Main Street. An intimate space perfect for stripped-down performances.

Montage Music Hall
A multi-level venue that’s been a Rochester music staple for years.

Wilder Room

The Theater at Innovation Square
A repurposed theater space that brings fresh energy to the festival.

The Little Theatre
Rochester’s historic art house cinema transforms into a jazz venue each June.

Inn on Broadway
A hotel venue with a second-floor performance space. 200-capacity shows with elevator access.

Christ Church
One of the festival’s unique church venues where sacred spaces become jazz sanctuaries.

Free Outdoor Stages

Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5
The festival’s largest free outdoor stage hosts major headliner concerts. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and settle in for high-energy performances under the stars.

Rochester Regional Health Big Tent
A massive tented stage on East Main Street with food, drinks, and free performances.

Jazz Street Stage (Gibbs Street)
Free concerts presented by The Community Foundation. Limited seating provided, or bring your own chair.

East Avenue & Chestnut Street Stage
Presented by City of Rochester and Gianniny Brothers. This free stage features both established and emerging artists.

Wegmans Pavilion
A tented stage on East Avenue and Chestnut Street with seating provided.

Ticketed Headliner Venue

Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre (Reserved Seat Shows)
Beyond the Club Pass shows, Kodak Hall hosts ticketed headliner concerts at 8 PM. These are separate from Club Pass shows and require individual tickets. Chris Botti performs here on June 25.

Musical Styles and What to Expect

A Full Spectrum of Jazz

The Rochester Festival lives up to its international reputation by showcasing every style of creative improvised music. You’ll find:

Traditional Jazz Styles

Swing and big band
Bebop and hard bop
Cool jazz and modal jazz
Latin jazz and bossa nova
Dixieland and New Orleans brass

Modern and Fusion

Contemporary jazz
Jazz-funk and groove
Jazz-rock fusion
World music influences
Avant-garde and experimental

Beyond Jazz While the festival centers on jazz, it has featured rock, soul, R&B, and blues artists over the years. Past performers include Sheryl Crow, Bruce Hornsby, and Gregg Allman. Keep your ears open for eclectic lineups that push boundaries.

Featured Genres in 2026

Based on announced artists, expect strong representation of:

Contemporary Piano Jazz (Hiromi, Danilo Perez, Bob James)
Trumpet Traditions (Chris Botti, Arturo Sandoval)
Vocal Jazz (Cecile McLorin Salvant, Catherine Russell)
Guitar Innovations (Bill Frisell)
Funk and Groove (The Headhunters)
New Orleans Brass (The Soul Rebels)
Tribute Performances (John Coltrane celebration with Joe Lovano)

Learning Opportunities: Workshops and Education

Free Jazz Workshops

Music students and aspiring musicians shouldn’t miss the five free jazz workshops during the festival. Led by professional musicians performing at the festival, these structured sessions cover:

Improvisation techniques
Music theory for jazz
Instrument-specific skills
Playing with others

Workshop Details:

When: Daily from 1:00-2:30 PM
Where: Eastman School of Music, Ray Wright Room 120 (first floor), 26 Gibbs Street
Cost: FREE and open to the public
Registration: Not required – just show up
Host: Bob Sneider, Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media at Eastman School of Music
Sponsor: Wegmans

Come to one workshop or attend all five. You’ll learn directly from festival performers and connect with fellow music lovers.

Artist Discussions and Panels

Throughout the festival, you’ll find opportunities to hear artists discuss their craft, creative process, and the business of music. Past topics have included:

Composing and arranging
The life of a touring musician
Jazz history and evolution
Recording and production

These events often include Q&A sessions where you can interact directly with your favorite artists.

The Arts Beyond Music

Visual Arts and Installations

The Rochester Jazz Festival isn’t just about what you hear – it’s about what you see. Art exhibitions and installations throughout the festival grounds celebrate the visual side of jazz culture. Local and international artists create works inspired by the soulful essence of jazz, from abstract pieces to photography capturing legendary performers.

Dance Performances

Jazz comes alive through movement! Watch for dance performances and collaborations where contemporary and traditional dancers unite with musicians on stage. These mesmerizing performances will have you tapping your feet and feeling the rhythm in your whole body.

Food and Drink: Fueling Your Festival Days

Festival Food Options

You’ll need energy to keep up with the music, and the festival delivers with plenty of options:

Food Trucks

Macarollin – Gourmet mac and cheese creations
Cookie Coma – Sweet treats
Duke’s Donuts – Fresh donuts
Plus many other rotating food trucks throughout the festival grounds

Food and Beverage Locations

Wegmans Pavilion (East Avenue and Chestnut Street)
Rochester Regional Health Big Tent (East Main Street)
Jazz Street Stage area (Gibbs Street)
All outdoor stage venues have food and drink stands

What You Can Bring

Small bags and backpacks (subject to search)
Portable chairs for outdoor shows
Non-alcoholic beverages

What’s NOT Allowed

Outside alcoholic beverages
Large bags or coolers
Professional camera equipment without permission

Rochester’s Culinary Scene

When you’re not at the festival, explore Rochester’s food scene:

Local Favorites

Morgan’s Cereal Bar – Unique cereal-infused dishes
Dar’s Delights Homemade Ice Cream – Cool off with locally made ice cream
Numerous local restaurants create special festival menus during jazz week

Many downtown Rochester restaurants stay open late during the festival and offer special deals for festival-goers. Ask locals for recommendations or check the festival app for dining suggestions.

Community and Cultural Impact

Jazz as a Bridge

The Rochester International Jazz Festival is more than entertainment – it’s a powerful force that strengthens community bonds. Since its founding in 2002 by jazz producer and saxophonist John Nugent and local music supporter Marc Iacona, the festival has grown into an economic and cultural engine for the region.

The festival’s commitment to accessibility shines through its free concerts and workshops, ensuring that everyone in the community can experience the joy and inspiration of world-class jazz, regardless of financial means.

Special Themed Celebrations

Throughout the nine days, the festival highlights different cultural traditions and styles:

International Spotlight
With artists from around the globe, you’ll hear music influenced by Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond. The festival celebrates jazz as America’s art form while showcasing how international musicians interpret and innovate within the genre.

Local Talent Showcase
Rochester and the Finger Lakes region have produced exceptional jazz musicians, and the festival makes space for local high school jazz bands, college ensembles, and regional artists to share stages with international legends.

Recordings and Broadcasts

Capturing the Magic

Many festival performances are recorded, preserving the energy and artistry for fans to revisit later. These live recordings capture the unique atmosphere of each venue, from the intimate church settings to the high-energy outdoor stages.

Executive producer Marc Iacona ensures these recordings celebrate the impressive talent showcased at the event while giving music fans the chance to share their favorite performances with others.

Listen from Home

Can’t make it to Rochester? The festival partners with local radio stations and streaming platforms to broadcast select performances. Check the festival website closer to June 2026 for the broadcast schedule and streaming links. You can experience the festival from anywhere in the world through your computer, tablet, or phone.

Where to Stay: Lake Rentals That Complete Your Festival Experience

Waterfront Living Meets World-Class Jazz

Your Rochester Jazz Festival experience begins long before the first note sounds. Imagine waking in a Lake Ontario rental where morning light sparkles across the water, coffee in hand as sailboats glide past your window. Or perhaps you prefer a Finger Lakes estate where vineyard views stretch toward distant hills, and the only sound is birdsong before you head to downtown Rochester for an evening of music.

The magic of combining a jazz festival with a lakeside stay lies in the contrast: days spent exploring the water (paddle boarding on Lake Ontario, wine tasting in the Finger Lakes, or simply watching the endless horizon), followed by evenings immersed in the intimate energy of world-class performances. Return to your lake rental after midnight jam sessions, the sound of waves or gentle lake breezes welcoming you home.

Lake Ontario Properties: Steps from the Festival

Rochester’s position on Lake Ontario’s southern shore means you can find rentals where the lake becomes part of your daily rhythm. Browse Lake.com for properties offering:

Waterfront Homes – Wake to sunrise over the lake, enjoy morning coffee on private docks, then drive 15-20 minutes to downtown Rochester venues
Beach Access Rentals – Spend afternoons at Ontario Beach Park before evening shows
Properties with Boat Slips – Bring your boat or rent one locally for lake exploration between performances
Modern Condos – Lakeside buildings with amenities, easy access to both water activities and festival venues

Many Lake Ontario rentals put you close to the Genesee River mouth, where the waterway meets the lake. This historic area offers restaurants, trails, and that quintessential Great Lakes atmosphere that makes summer evenings feel limitless.

Finger Lakes Wine Country: An Hour Away, A World Apart

Can’t choose between jazz and the Finger Lakes? You don’t have to. The region’s famous lakes (Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, Cayuga, and more) sit less than an hour from Rochester, making them perfect for a longer stay that combines festival nights with wine country days.

Book a Finger Lakes lakefront property and experience:

Morning kayaking on crystal-clear glacial lakes
Afternoon wine tastings at award-winning vineyards
Sunset views that rival any coastal destination
Evening drives to Rochester for 7 PM and 9:30 PM shows
Late-night returns to peaceful lake settings far from city crowds

The Finger Lakes lifestyle pairs beautifully with the festival’s rhythm. Spend your first few days relaxing lakeside, then shift into jazz mode for the festival’s middle days, ending with a final lakeside retreat to process all the music you’ve absorbed.

Booking Your Perfect Lake Rental

The combination of the jazz festival and prime lake season (June is ideal for both) means reservations disappear quickly. Here’s your strategy:

Timeline

January-February – Begin browsing Lake.com for properties. The best lakefront homes book 4-6 months ahead for June.
March – Secure your rental after the full festival lineup drops (March 10). You’ll know which days you want to attend.
April-May – Book any remaining details: boats, bikes, dining reservations at lakeside restaurants

Choosing Your Location

For Maximum Festival Access:
Lake Ontario properties near Rochester’s northern suburbs (Greece, Webster, Ontario) put you 15-25 minutes from downtown venues. You get lakefront living with easy festival access.

For Wine Country Experience:
Finger Lakes properties offer more peace and natural beauty but require 45-75 minute drives to Rochester. Perfect if you’re attending select shows rather than trying to hit 3-4 venues daily.

For The Best of Both Worlds:
Consider booking two different stays: start with a Finger Lakes property for relaxation, then move to a Lake Ontario rental closer to Rochester for the festival’s peak weekend.

What to Look For

Properties with outdoor spaces for post-show wind-down
Air conditioning (June can be warm, and you’ll want comfort after long festival days)
Full kitchens (save money on breakfast and lunch, splurge on festival food)
Easy parking (you’ll be driving to/from venues)
Flexible check-in/out times (show schedules don’t always align with standard rental times)

Lake.com Advantage
When you book through Lake.com, you’re connecting with properties that understand lakeside hospitality. These aren’t just places to sleep – they’re bases for water adventures, quiet mornings, and the kind of summer experiences that make jazz festival memories even richer.

Transportation and Parking

Getting to the Festival

Public Transportation
Regional Transit Service (RTS) provides bus service throughout Rochester. Check their website for routes serving the East End festival district.

Bike and Scooter Rentals
HOPR bikes and scooters are available throughout Rochester. This eco-friendly option lets you zip between venues and explore the city.

Driving and Parking

Ample parking is available around the festival venues, but read signs carefully as some streets and private lots don’t allow festival parking.

Nearby Parking Options:

E Main St – 555 feet walk to festival venues
Gibbs Street – 635 feet walk
Franklin Street – 1,271 feet walk
South Union Street – 1,375 feet walk
East Avenue garages
Alexander Street lots

Parking Tips:

Arrive early, especially for popular shows
Consider parking once and walking to multiple venues (European festival style!)
Rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) are popular during the festival
Some hotels offer shuttle service to festival venues

Supporting the Festival: How You Can Help

Sponsors and Partners

The CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival thrives because of generous support from sponsors and partners who value the arts. Key sponsors for 2026 include:

Rochester Regional Health – Title Sponsor
M&T Bank – Supporting sponsor
Wegmans – Jazz Workshops sponsor and stage sponsor
Harris Beach Murtha – RIJF App sponsor
The Community Foundation – Jazz Street Stage sponsor

These organizations understand that jazz enriches the community and commit to keeping this world-class festival accessible to all.

Ways to Contribute

Corporate Sponsorship
Businesses can demonstrate their commitment to the arts while gaining valuable exposure. Contact the festival about sponsorship opportunities that fit your company’s values and budget.

Individual Donations
One-time or recurring donations help keep ticket prices affordable and free concerts available. Visit the festival’s official website for donation information.

Volunteering
Want to be part of the magic behind the scenes? The festival relies on volunteers to help with everything from venue management to guest services. Volunteers get an insider’s view of the festival while helping ensure smooth operations.

Spread the Word
Share your festival experience on social media, tell friends about your favorite performances, and encourage others to experience the Rochester Jazz Festival.

Your support ensures the festival continues to bring outstanding jazz to the Lake Ontario region for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Festival

What are the 2026 Rochester Jazz Festival dates?

The 23rd edition runs June 19-27, 2026 – nine full days of music starting on Friday and ending on Saturday.

How do I buy tickets?

Purchase Club Passes and headliner tickets online at RochesterJazz.com/tickets, by phone at (585) 454-2060, or in person at the RIJF Ticket Shop (100 East Avenue, opening June 2026).

Are there free events?

Yes! Over 100 free concerts take place on outdoor stages including the Wegmans Stage at Parcel 5, the Jazz Street Stage, and others. The five jazz workshops are also free and open to the public.

Where can I find a venue map?

The official RIJF app (launching soon for 2026) includes an interactive map. The festival website also provides a downloadable map closer to June 2026.

How many people attend the festival?

More than 200,000 jazz fans attended recent editions, making it one of the most popular music festivals in North America.

What’s the best way to experience the festival?

The 9-Day Club Pass offers the ultimate flexibility and value, letting you explore multiple venues each day and catch up to 174 different shows. First-time visitors often start with a 3-Day Pass to sample different styles and venues.

Can I bring children?

Yes! The festival is all ages. However, individuals 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian 21 years or older (or an adult 25 or older). Adults must stay with minors at all times.

What should I bring?

Your Club Pass or tickets
Valid photo ID
Cash for food, drinks, and door admission (if not using a Club Pass)
Portable chair for outdoor shows
Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll cover lots of ground!)
Light jacket or sweater (venues can be cool, and June evenings can be chilly near Lake Ontario)
Phone charger/portable battery
Sunscreen and sunglasses for outdoor shows

What can’t I bring?

Large bags or coolers
Outside food or alcoholic beverages (non-alcoholic drinks okay)
Professional camera equipment
Unauthorized promotional materials
Anything festival management deems unsafe

Is the festival accessible?

Yes! All venues are handicapped accessible. Specific accessibility information is available for each venue on the festival website. Contact the festival at [email protected] with specific questions.

What if it rains?

All shows go on rain or shine! Indoor venues continue as scheduled, and outdoor shows proceed unless weather creates safety concerns. Check the festival’s social media for any weather-related updates.

Where do I park?

Multiple parking options exist near the festival venues (see Transportation section above). Arrive early for popular shows, or consider using public transportation, rideshare, or bike/scooter rentals.

Can I attend Club Pass shows without a Club Pass?

Yes! Pay $30 cash at most Club Pass venues, $35 at Kilbourn Hall, or $40 at Kodak Hall Club Pass shows. However, the Club Pass offers significant savings if you plan to attend multiple shows.

When is the full lineup announced?

The complete 2026 lineup will be revealed by March 10, 2026. Artists are announced in waves throughout the fall and winter, so sign up for the e-newsletter at RochesterJazz.com to get updates.

Where can I stay during the festival?

Hotels throughout Rochester and lake rentals on Lake Ontario offer convenient access to the festival. Book early for the best selection. The Finger Lakes region is also nearby for those seeking a longer lakeside vacation.

The History: From Vision to World-Class Festival

The Founding Story

In 2002, jazz saxophonist John Nugent and local business leader Marc Iacona shared a vision: bring world-class jazz to the heart of upstate New York. Nugent, a noted tenor sax player who had toured with legends like Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, and Rosemary Clooney, brought his deep knowledge of the jazz world. Iacona, a Rochester native, avid trumpeter, and President of Simcona Electronics, brought business expertise and community connections.

Together, they created the Rochester International Jazz Festival, transforming downtown Rochester into “Jazz Street” each June. What started as an ambitious experiment has become one of the most important jazz festivals in the world.

Growth and Evolution

Over 23 years, the festival has:

Grown from a small regional event to an international destination
Attracted legendary performers from Norah Jones and Diana Krall to Herbie Hancock and Wynton Marsalis
Expanded from a handful of venues to 18 diverse spaces
Added free concerts, workshops, and community programs
Drawn attendance from 200,000+ annually
Generated millions in economic impact for the Rochester region
Maintained its intimate, accessible character despite massive growth

Festival Legends

Some artists have become Rochester Jazz Festival regulars, returning year after year:

Bill Frisell – 11 appearances (2026 will be his 11th)
Joe Locke – 10 appearances
Trombone Shorty – 9 appearances
Catherine Russell – 9 appearances (including 2026)
Djabe – 8 appearances (including 2026)
Chris Botti – 6 appearances (including 2026)

These artists return because of the festival’s unique atmosphere – the passionate audiences, the walkable European-style format, and the sense of community that permeates every performance.

Make It Happen: Your 2026 Festival Action Plan

Ready to experience the magic of the Rochester Jazz Festival on the shores of Lake Ontario? Here’s your step-by-step plan:

Today

Sign up for the festival e-newsletter at RochesterJazz.com for lineup updates and early ticket access
Follow the festival on social media for daily announcements
Start researching Lake Ontario and Finger Lakes accommodations

By March 2026

Purchase your Club Pass (prices increase March 10)
Book your hotel or lake rental
Download the 2026 RIJF app when it launches
Review the full lineup (announced by March 10)

April-May 2026

Create your festival schedule using the app
Make restaurant reservations for any must-visit spots
Arrange transportation (parking, rideshare, public transit)
Tell friends and family about your plans

June 1-18, 2026

Finalize your daily schedules
Pack appropriate clothing (layers for cool evenings)
Charge devices and download offline maps
Review festival policies and what you can bring

June 19-27, 2026

Redeem your Club Pass ticket at the Ticket Shop (before attending shows)
Arrive early at popular venues
Try different genres and venues
Take breaks – it’s a marathon, not a sprint!
Share your experience on social media
Make memories that last a lifetime

Connect and Stay Updated

Official Festival Website: RochesterJazz.com

Phone: (585) 454-2060

Email: [email protected]

Social Media:

Instagram: @rochesterintjazzfest
Facebook: Rochester International Jazz Festival
Twitter: Follow for real-time updates
Spotify: Listen to the 2026 Playlist

Download the RIJF App (launching soon for 2026)

iOS and Android
Full lineup and schedule
Venue maps and directions
Artist information and samples
Alerts when shows start
Create custom schedules

The Lake Ontario Experience: Where Water Meets Rhythm

Rochester offers something that sets it apart from every other jazz festival in the world. Yes, you’ll hear legendary musicians. Yes, you’ll experience intimate venues and open-air stages. But here, all of this unfolds against the backdrop of Lake Ontario’s endless waters and the Finger Lakes’ vine-covered slopes.

This is where America’s inland sea meets world-class music. Where you can spend the day paddle boarding on waters so clear you can see the sandy bottom ten feet down, then spend the evening in a candlelit church listening to a jazz trio that makes time stand still. Where the Erie Canal’s historic towpaths become your morning running route, and downtown streets transform into Europe-style jazz corridors each night.

The festival’s walkable format mirrors the lakeside lifestyle itself: unhurried, exploratory, intimate. Park once and stroll between venues, following the sound of music drifting through early summer air. Stop at outdoor cafes where food trucks serve everything from gourmet mac and cheese to fresh donuts. Watch street musicians create impromptu performances between official shows. Feel the community that forms when thousands of music lovers gather in one compact, beautiful district.

Between shows, Lake Ontario beckons. Ontario Beach Park offers sandy shores and sunset views. The Genesee River winds through the city, its mouth opening to the vast lake where sailboats lean into the breeze. Local breweries craft beers inspired by the Great Lakes region. Wegmans – the Rochester-born grocery legend – sponsors major festival stages, its commitment to community evident in every detail.

Further south, the Finger Lakes wine region offers a different kind of magic. Rieslings that rival Germany’s best, Cabernet Francs that surprise even French winemakers, and views across glacier-carved lakes that photographers spend lifetimes trying to capture. You can sip a Ravines Wine Cellars white while watching sunset paint Keuka Lake gold, then drive an hour north to hear a GRAMMY-winning trumpeter at Kodak Hall.

This is jazz as it’s meant to be experienced. Not in some air-conditioned convention center, but woven into the fabric of a real place with real character. A place where the Great Lakes meet upstate elegance. Where summer means water and music in equal measure. Where community still matters, and strangers become friends over shared songs.

Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or curious newcomer, whether you stay one night or nine, whether you book a lakefront estate or a cozy downtown hotel, the Rochester International Jazz Festival welcomes you into something extraordinary.

June 19-27, 2026. The water is calling. So is the music.