Melbourne International Jazz Festival

Overview

Melbourne is about to get a whole lot jazzier as the streets and laneways of the city are set to come alive with the sounds of brass, the beats of drums, and the smooth notes of saxophone. These sounds can only mean one thing: the Melbourne International Jazz Festival (MIJF) is back in town.

From October 20 to October 29, Australia's top jazz event will treat locals and tourists alike to over 100 performances in more than 30 venues. The ten-day extravaganza will see jazz music swinging into concert halls, bustling bars, iconic live music joints and even along the scenic banks of the Yarra. Hell, if you're up for a swim, you might even catch some smooth tunes at the Melbourne City Baths.

The MIJF has been Melbourne's prized possession since 1998, and it's been a magical time of the year ever since. But this year, the festival organisers have truly outdone themselves, as more than 450 artists from all over the world — paired with Australia's finest — are about to elevate the city's vibe.

Highlights include the legendary Chaka Khan, who will be gracing the Sidney Myer Music Bowl stage, celebrating half a century in music and a chill resume boasting ten Grammys. Joining her for the Jazz at the Bowl will be the eternally-funky Nile Rodgers & CHIC, along with Australia's very own Kaiit and Horns of Leroy.

Elsewhere, the festival has an expansive array of free community events. You can experience a taste of New Orleans right here in Melbourne as a vibrant parade headed by the Hot 8 Brass Band graces Southbank for one hell of a street party.

For those who like their jazz with a side of community spirit, there's the Jazz Westside program which will visit Footscray, Moonee Ponds and Spotswood's Grazeland. Meanwhile, the ever-popular Late Night Jams at The JazzLab returns for another year. And if you've ever wanted to get up close and personal with the artists, the Close Encounters panel sessions have got you covered.

So alert your mates, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to experience the biggest Melbourne International Jazz Festival yet.

Head to Visit Melbourne for the full rundown and to check out what else is happening in Melbourne this spring.