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Your June Long Weekend, Soundtracked by Jazz

This June long weekend, trade the ordinary for something unforgettable and head to the beautiful Sapphire Coast for four spectacular days of music at the 44th Merimbula Jazz Festival, running 5–8 June 2026.

Set in the stunning seaside town of Merimbula, the festival transforms the town into a vibrant hub of rhythm and melody. With eight venues all within easy walking distance, 100 bands and over 500 musicians, it’s one of Australia’s most welcoming and exciting jazz gatherings.

Whether you love the bold energy of big bands, smooth modern jazz, toe-tapping swing, traditional jazz or funky grooves, you’ll find it here. Highlights include powerhouse performances from the Royal Australian Navy Big Band and plenty of opportunities to discover new favourite artists.

The Merimbula Jazz Festival is also passionate about nurturing the next generation of musicians. The Youth Jazz Quest, proudly sponsored by Bendigo Community Bank Pambula and Bega, showcases some of Australia’s most talented young performers – tomorrow’s jazz legends sharing the stage with seasoned professionals.

Feeling inspired? Join in the fun with a vocal workshop led by acclaimed vocalist and musician Leisa Keen and experience the thrill of becoming part of the festival program yourself.

Love to dance? Bring your dancing shoes – swing bands will keep the floor lively all weekend. For a soulful moment, the festival’s uplifting ecumenical service features the soaring voices of the Gospel Choir.

The music flows through venues all close enough to wander between while soaking up the festival atmosphere.

Music begins Friday afternoon and continues late into the night each day, finishing with the lively Jazz Party on Monday from 11am–4pm.

Grab a weekend pass here or drop in for a day, day passes are on sale at our Jazz Office, but don’t miss it.

We look forward to seeing you at the 44th Merimbula Jazz Festival!

Artwork for 2026

This year we're helping to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Merimbula vintage fire truck, also known as the Garford.

The Garford has been used to transport musicians to the opening ceremony and has been a regular feature at the festival. In 2026 it has a special place on our poster, thanks to graphic design work by Nic Tegart.

“Bands like us play to real audiences in real venues and are made part of the community of jazz musicians and fans that make the MJF so special and so enduring.”

Saul Richardson, Jazz Workshop Australia

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