The 46th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal kicked off Thursday in the Quartier des spectacles, launching 10 days of concerts running through July 4.
Organizers say this year’s festival will feature more than 350 performances, with roughly two-thirds of shows offered free of charge across multiple outdoor and indoor stages.
Opening day programming includes a multidisciplinary performance by Kid Koala, featuring live music, puppetry, miniature sets and real-time filming and projection.
The production is performed, filmed and scored live on stage, combining music with theatrical and visual storytelling.
Free shows are also set to take place on the festival’s main outdoor stage, with performances expected from artists including Patrick Watson, Angine de Poitrine, Willow and Saint Levant.
Organizers say the lineup blends established names with emerging talent, with additional artists scheduled throughout the festival.
This year’s edition will also mark the centenaries of Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Tony Bennett, with tribute performances scheduled across multiple venues.
Programming will also recognize milestones tied to UZEB and J Dilla, highlighting key figures in jazz and contemporary music history.
The 2026 edition will run over 10 days, featuring a mix of free outdoor concerts, club shows and indoor performances across Montreal’s downtown core.
Organizers say the festival continues to highlight a balance of tradition and contemporary music styles while showcasing international and local artists.
