JazzConnect: Scarborough’s beachside jazz festival is back

After taking a break in 2023, Scarborough’s weekend festival of jazz is back for its third year as JazzConnect.

Produced by the newly formed ArtConnectInitiative, the festival will liven up the foreshore from Friday, August 23 to Sunday, August 25.

Proudly presented by the City of Stirling, JazzConnect 2024 features 17 free and ticketed events at nine beachside locations, all within easy walking distance.

City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin is encouraging residents and visitors to get along for a full day out or stay for the complete weekend experience. “Heading into spring, this event gives a fantastic excuse to get amongst all Scarborough has to offer, with entertainment to sample in and around some of the best local spots, from morning ‘til night,” he said.

Festival Director Karen Caddy said the three-day program caters to all musical tastes, taking in jazz acts ranging from traditional to swing, soul, R&B, folk, funk, blues, Latin and more.

“This weekend is about enjoying great local artists and iconic venues against Scarborough’s spectacular ocean views; from breezy brunch vibes to black-tie evening glamour, there’s something for music lovers of all ages—from the casual to the connoisseur—including events for the whole family,” she said.

Scarborough Surf Life Saving Club’s Sunset Terrace will transform into the festival’s Hub, hosting two hot-ticket marquee events: a brand-new night of elegance with jazz legend Libby Hammer on Saturday and a Sunday afternoon of smooth bossa nova with Festival Curator Georgie Aue premiering her brand-new show.

Outside the Hub, find acts across the weekend at Livid Skate Café & Laneway, Scarborough Sunset Markets, Zoie Café, Rendezvous Hotel, The Sandbar, Scarborough Beach Bar, The Lookout and El Grotto.

New and established Perth talent abounds, from the festival’s opening night with GunFu to the closing party with Steve Hensby Band. In between, Basilio Brothers will be crooning the afternoon away; there will be free swing dance lessons while the Matt Cahill Combo plays; as well as a sunset samba with Marcio Mendes; spicy Cuban rhythms with De Cuba Son’s and more.

While more than half of the festival’s events are free, tickets for some are limited, and all are available now.

JazzConnect takes over Scarborough Foreshore and surrounds from Friday, August 23 to Sunday, August 25, 2024.For more info and to buy tickets, head to artconnectwa.com.au