Chicago to Host 2026 International Jazz Day and Month of Citywide Programming

The Windy City’s jazz heritage runs deep — and this spring, those musical roots will take the global stage as Chicago hosts the 15th Annual International Jazz Day. In partnership with UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute, Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will host a month-long celebration of jazz in all its forms. Here’s all the details! Chicago— The Birthplace of International Jazz Day ---------------------------------------------------- The history of Jazz Day dates back to 2011, when Chicago’s own Herbie Hancock conceived of the global cultural event. In the 15 years since, Jazz Day has become a beloved tradition celebrated in more than 190 countries across the globe. Previous iterations of the festival have taken place in Paris, New Orleans, Sydney, Abu Dhabi, Havana, and many other cities. For the 2026 festival, Jazz Day will return to the city where it all began, right here in Chicago. “I’m excited that Chicago, my hometown, is hosting International Jazz Day 2026,” said Herbie Hancock in a statement. “Jazz opened doors to creativity, self-expression and freedom. I hope that this Day will inspire young artists and audiences in the same way that I was inspired during those formative years.” What’s on the schedule ---------------------- International Jazz Day 2026 will include a full month of citywide performances and cultural events throughout April. The event will culminate in the All-Star Global Concert on April 30 at the Lyric Opera in Chicago, which will also be available to stream on YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms. Confirmed performers include celebrated local and international talents: * Jacob Collier * Renée Fleming * James Carter * Robert Glasper * Dee Dee Bridgewater * Marcus Miller * Herbie Hancock Many additional performers will also take the stage. State and local leaders sign off -------------------------------- State and local officials came together at a Tuesday press conference to officially announce International Jazz Day 2026 and express excitement for the event. “Today is an incredible celebration of an art form that helped shape America’s cultural heartbeat and found one of its greatest homes here in Chicago,” said Governor JB Pritzker . “Jazz is part of the history and cultural lifeblood of Chicago, and I can’t think of a better place to celebrate the genre’s roots and enduring legacy during International Jazz Day.” Mayor Brandon Johnson also voiced his support stating, “Chicago’s vibrant jazz legacy runs deep. Since the earliest days of the Great Migration, jazz has been interwoven with our city’s cultural fabric and identity.” “Hosting International Jazz Day in 2026 here in Chicago is a tremendous honor and a powerful testament to the enduring spirit and innovation of our musicians and our passionate jazz community.” More information ---------------- To learn more about International Jazz Day 2026 and view the full schedule of programming, click here. Source: https://secretchicago.com/chicago-international-jazz-day-2026/