📍 Prince Edward County
📅 Aug 11–16
🎷 Jazz Festival
🏆 26th Annual • JUNO Artists
Prince Edward County Jazz Festival 2026
Six days of world-class jazz across multiple venues, from intimate wine country to historic theatres, celebrating Canadian and international artists.
Dates
Aug 11–16
Cost
$20–$55
Where
Picton & County
Kids
12 & Under Free
🎤 7 headliners
🍷 Wine country venues
🎓 Free workshops
🎺 After Hours sets
💡 Award-winning festival spanning theatres, wineries, and intimate venues across the County. Artistic Director Sarah Kim Turnbull leads the 26th year with JUNO-nominated and award-winning artists performing everything from classic jazz to contemporary explorations.
About the Festival
Now in its 26th year, the Prince Edward County Jazz Festival celebrates excellence in jazz performance and education. What began as a small annual August festival in Picton has grown into one of Canada’s most respected mainstream jazz festivals, featuring award-winning Canadian and international artists. The festival is rooted in community while remaining musically adventurous, with Artistic Director Sarah Kim Turnbull curating performances designed to create unforgettable shared experiences between audiences and musicians. Beyond performances, the festival supports jazz education through year-round youth programs, the Paul Pandos Bursary, and free workshops.
🎺 Multiple Venues
The Regent Theatre, Huff Estates Winery, Sandbanks Winery, Waring Hall, and intimate clubs and wineries throughout the County create varied, immersive experiences.
🏆 Award-Winning Artists
JUNO Award nominees and winners, international touring artists, and emerging talent create a diverse, high-calibre lineup each year.
📚 Education Focus
Free workshops, the Jazz Education Program, Youth Ensemble, and annual bursary support the next generation of musicians.
🍷 Wine Country Setting
Prince Edward County’s scenic vineyard landscape and lakeside charm provide a stunning backdrop for six days of jazz.
Festival Schedule
Tuesday, August 11
Festival opens with JUNO Award nominee Shuffle Demons at Huff Estates Winery. High-energy performances kick off the week.
Wednesday, August 12
Doghouse Orchestra returns to the festival with their eclectic blend of gospel, jazz, funk, and country. Workshop: Introduction to Brazilian Samba Percussion at Picton Town Hall, 11:00 AM.
Thursday, August 13
Ale Nuñez showcases jazz and soul vocals in the Barrel Room at Sandbanks Winery. Workshop: Intro to Jazz Ukulele at Picton Town Hall, 11:00 AM. (Hands-on sold out; observers welcome.)
Friday, August 14
Jeremy Ledbetter Trio with opening artist Anh Phung at The Regent Theatre. After Hours: Steve Holt Trio at The Waring House. Free workshop with Anh Phung at Picton Town Hall, 11:00 AM.
Saturday, August 15
Festival favourite Emilie-Claire Barlow (Félix and JUNO Award winner) performs at The Regent Theatre. After Hours: Gord Sheard Trio at The Regent Theatre Loft.
Sunday, August 16
Festival closes with singer Irene Torres and Eric St-Laurent performing an evening of Latin jazz at Waring Hall. Glenwood Cemetery hosts annual live jazz on Saturday morning.
Featured Headliners & Artists
Shuffle Demons
JUNO Award-nominated Toronto ensemble opening the festival Tuesday night at Huff Estates Winery.
Emilie-Claire Barlow
Félix and JUNO Award recipient with over 500 million streams. Festival favourite returns Saturday at The Regent Theatre.
Jeremy Ledbetter Trio
JUNO Award winner with touring experience across Canada and around the world. Friday headliner at The Regent Theatre with Rich Brown and Larnell Lewis.
Anh Phung
Extraordinary flautist and music creator with an innovative approach. Free workshop Friday morning at Picton Town Hall.
Doghouse Orchestra
Genre-defying nine-piece ensemble blending gospel, jazz, funk, and country. Wednesday night at Huff Estates Winery.
Irene Torres & Eric St-Laurent
An evening of Latin jazz closes the festival Sunday at Waring Hall with effortless delivery and intense charisma.
Getting to Prince Edward County
📍 The Location
Prince Edward County is located in southeastern Ontario, approximately 160 km (99 miles) east of Toronto. The County’s main hub is Picton, home to The Regent Theatre and other major venues. The region is known for its wine country, scenic lakeside views, and cultural attractions.
Open in Google Maps
🚗 Driving
From Toronto, take Highway 401 east toward Belleville, then follow Highway 62 south or Highway 49 east into Prince Edward County. The drive takes approximately 2.5–3 hours depending on traffic. Parking is available at venues throughout the County, though some may be limited during peak festival nights.
🏨 Stay & Experience
Prince Edward County is a popular wine and tourism destination. Numerous hotels, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals are available throughout the County. Consider making it a weekend getaway to explore wineries, lakeside beaches, and local dining alongside the festival.
Why Go to the PEC Jazz Festival?
The Prince Edward County Jazz Festival is one of Canada’s premier jazz events, offering something rare: world-class performances in a setting that celebrates both artistic excellence and community. Six days across multiple intimate venues—from wineries to historic theatres—mean you can experience everything from classic jazz standards to contemporary explorations. The festival’s commitment to education means you can learn directly from featured artists through free workshops. Whether you’re a serious jazz enthusiast or someone discovering the genre, the PEC Jazz Festival delivers performances that linger long after the music stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Details may change — always confirm on the official PEC Jazz Festival website before heading out.
Location
Get Directions40 Clara Dr, Picton, ON K0K 2T0
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