JazzConnect is back with a swingin’ 2026 program

JazzConnect returns to Scarborough Beach this year, bringing an expanded program of live music to cafés, bars, beachfront venues and every corner of the foreshore from Friday, August 28, to Sunday, August 30.

Proudly presented by the City of Stirling, the festival is produced by ArtConnect Initiative in partnership with Perth Jazz Society. With the support of the Scarborough Beach Association, the event brings together a plethora of free and ticketed events across 11 of Scarborough’s most iconic venues.

Curated by Kristian Borring, the program spans contemporary jazz, Latin music, soul, swing, and classic crooner performances across cafés, bars, hotels, beachfront venues and community spaces throughout Scarborough.

“JazzConnect is a celebration of Scarborough in winter—a chance to rug up, head out, and experience the coast in a new way,” said Festival Director Karen Caddy. “It’s a weekend where great music, local businesses and community spirit come together.”

Returning for 2026 are many of the venues and artists that helped make last year’s event such a success, alongside a selection of new artists and venues joining the program for the first time.

This year’s highlights include contemporary jazz pianist Harry Mitchell at the Rendezvous Perth Scarborough, Brazilian and Latin music favourites Marcio Mendes, Juliana Areias and De Cuba Son; Sophie Foster’s Women of Soul show at The Sandbar, and The Basilios celebrating the music of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin at The Lookout.

Perth Jazz Society returns as a festival partner in 2026, presenting the Joe Brown Trio, Jazz with Junior, a family-friendly concert, and a live recording with Bad Neighbour at the Scarborough Beach Community Centre.

The program also features intimate café performances at ZOIE Café and Livid Laneway, smooth jazz sessions at Brighton Wine Bar and a late-night session at El Grotto.

“JazzConnect is a fantastic way to experience Scarborough during winter while supporting local businesses and enjoying outstanding live music,” said City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin. “The City of Stirling is proud to support an event that brings people together, activates the foreshore, and showcases the creativity and vibrancy of our community.”

JazzConnect hits Scarborough Foreshore and surrounds from Friday, August 28, to Sunday, August 30, 2026. For the full program and to buy tickets, head to artconnectwa.com.au