Now in its 47th year, the Tri-C JazzFest has been a pivotal part of Cleveland's live music scene for over four decades. And, this year's fest, happening June 26 - 28, is shaping up to be one for the books.
The 2026 lineup features an assortment of established jazz greats alongside global visionaries and hometown heroes. Catch the music flowing through E. 14th Street and Euclid Avenue under the largest outdoor chandelier in the country at Playhouse Square or head inside of one of the historic theaters for a truly immersive, genre-bending experience.
Tickets are on sale now for indoor performances.
Check out some of the highlights ...
{^youtubevideo|(width)425|(height)264|(rel)False|(autoplay)False|(fs)True|(url)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUXFbAp5pZs^}
Indoor Lineup
For 47 years, Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland has honored jazz tradition while pushing the music boldly forward — and the 2026 indoor lineup continues that legacy in spectacular fashion. This year’s festival brings together global icons, groundbreaking innovators and hometown heroes for three unforgettable nights inside Playhouse Square.
Festival highlights include the legendary “Queen of Percussion” Sheila E., jazz fusion favorites Spyro Gyra, Grammy-winning vocalist Durand Bernarr with Cleveland’s own Hubb’s Groove presenting Long Live Levert, and jazz greats Kurt Elling and Fred Hersch performing music from Wildflowers. Audiences can also experience master bassist Ron Carter and his Foursight Quartet, the genre-bending energy of Chris Dave & The Drumhedz featuring Stokley, acclaimed trumpeter Nicholas Payton, rising vocalist Laurin Talese and the unmistakable funk of the Ohio Players.
The lineup also shines a spotlight on Cleveland talent and the next generation of jazz artistry, including Dominick Farinacci and Jon Thomas, while celebrating the festival’s commitment to innovation, education and musical storytelling. From soul and funk to straight-ahead jazz and boundary-crossing performances, the 2026 indoor series promises an electrifying journey through the many sounds of jazz today.
Outdoor Lineup
Looking for free live music, great food and nonstop festival energy? Tri-C JazzFest’s Outdoor Festival transforms Playhouse Square into an open-air celebration under the GE Chandelier, with concerts, dancing, vendors and activities for all ages throughout festival weekend.
The SeibertKeck Insurance Partners Stage showcases an exciting mix of local, regional and national talent, while the festival’s outdoor programming keeps the district buzzing with street performers, artisan vendors, food trucks and community activities. The Jazz Kitchen returns with live cooking demos, artist interviews and performances throughout the day, including appearances by Dan Bruce, The Mars Express, Kenesha Terrell, Dre Walton, Aaron Smith and RDAA, and a special performance by Tony Award-winning tap legend Savion Glover featuring PROjECt.9.
Festivalgoers can also explore family-friendly programming, student performances and interactive activities while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that has become a JazzFest tradition. Whether you’re catching a set between indoor shows, discovering a new artist or simply soaking in the summer energy downtown, the Outdoor Festival delivers a full weekend of music, culture and community — completely free to attend.
So, get down to Tri-C JazzFest and, well, get DOWN.
