Programming and musical performances will kick off April 1 and culminate in an April 30 concert at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House, starring dozens of artists from around the world.
Chicago’s legendary jazz scene is preparing to shine on the world’s stage in April, when the city hosts the UNESCO International Jazz Day 2026 for the first time
Gov. JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson joined other elected officials on Tuesday to announce the lineup, an announcement that also featured music legends Herbie Hancock and Kurt Elling.
The global event will kick off April 1 with weeks of educational programming, master classes and special performances to the city. The month will culminate in the All-Star Global Concert on April 30 at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House. The concert will feature more than 40 international artists, including Hancock, Elling, Dianne Reeves, Ernest Dawkins, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Terence Blanchard.
Most events will be free and open to the public, with online registration opening on March 1 at chicagojazzalliance.org.
“Chicago’s always been a city of innovation, creativity, and most of all, we just bring joy to the world. The evolution of jazz music is proof positive of our city’s unique spirit, what I like to refer to as the soul of Chicago,” Johnson said. “We are ready to showcase that spirit and our soul with the world as we host the International Jazz Day of 2026.
