Events
Halifax Jazz Festival Announces Full Lineup for Summer
Organizers promise an eclectic mix of international artists, local talent, and waterfront performances spanning six days in downtown Halifax.
Published: May 08, 2025 at 12:25
By: By John Barry, Great White Press
Halifax’s waterfront is poised to come alive this summer as organizers unveiled the full lineup for the much-anticipated Halifax Jazz Festival. With an eclectic mix of global headliners and homegrown talent, the event promises a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community.
Kicking off on July 10, the six-day festival will feature more than 40 performances across outdoor stages, intimate venues, and community pop-ups. Grammy-nominated saxophonist Kamasi Washington will headline opening night, marking his first appearance in Atlantic Canada.
Festival director Lise Powers emphasized the event’s inclusive spirit. “Jazz is about improvisation and diversity—it brings people together,” she said. “This year’s lineup reflects that ethos across genres and generations.”
In addition to jazz purists, the festival will cater to fans of fusion, soul, and funk with acts like BadBadNotGood, Sharon Jones Tribute Ensemble, and emerging Indigenous artist Anika Quinn. Local favorites such as the Halifax All-Stars will round out the program.
Events are scheduled at scenic waterfront locations including the Foundation Wharf Main Stage and the Historic Properties Courtyard, offering panoramic views and accessible seating for all attendees.
The festival’s educational programming will return, with daytime workshops, youth performances, and artist talks at local schools and libraries. Organizers say these events foster the next generation of talent while encouraging musical exploration among young audiences.
Food trucks, craft beer stations, and artisan vendors will line the waterfront promenade, creating a festival village that extends the experience beyond the music. This year’s theme, “Sound and Soul,” aims to celebrate Nova Scotia’s cultural roots and international influences.
Sustainability is a major focus for 2025. Reusable drinkware, composting stations, and a no-plastic bag policy are being implemented. Organizers are also partnering with the Halifax Transit Authority to provide late-night service and discounted festival shuttle passes.
Security and health protocols are in place, with extra staffing to ensure safety and crowd control. Festival-goers are encouraged to pre-register for events via the official app to help manage capacity and enhance the overall experience.
Advance ticket sales have already surpassed previous records, with VIP packages and multi-day passes selling quickly. “People are eager to reconnect through live music,” said Powers. “This is more than an event—it’s a homecoming.”
The Halifax Jazz Festival has grown from a grassroots gathering into a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar. As the waterfront prepares to welcome thousands of visitors, the music is set to once again echo through the heart of Nova Scotia’s capital.