Now in its fifth year, the Sidmouth Jazz and Blues Festival has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s leading boutique music festivals, and one of the highlights of the East Devon calendar.
Every May bank holiday weekend, Sidmouth comes alive with world-class jazz, blues, swing, soul, funk, gospel, Latin and Cuban music, drawing thousands of visitors to one of Devon’s most beautiful coastal towns.
The 2026 headline programme is exceptional. Jools Holland tops the bill (already sold out), joined by Emeli Sandé, Macy Gray and Incognito. Alongside the ticketed concerts, the Love Local stage brings free outdoor performances to the heart of Sidmouth, while the festival fringe spills into the town’s hotels, restaurants and pubs across the whole weekend.
Evening concerts open from 6 pm. Daytime performances run Saturday 23 to Monday 25 May, with gates open from 10 am and music from 11 am each day. Seating is available in limited numbers on a first-come, first-served basis, with standing areas also on offer.
The main arena is set within Blackmore Gardens, with a full bar run by the award-winning Branscombe Brewery, picnic benches, high-quality toilet facilities and a designated disabled viewing area. Just outside the gardens at Peacock Lawn, the Soul Food and Love Local stage showcases local talent alongside a great selection of food vendors.
Whether you are a lifelong jazz devotee or simply looking for a brilliant long weekend by the sea, you won’t want to miss this festival.