Markham Jazz Festival returns August 22 and 23, 2026, bringing an incredible lineup of jazz artists to the heart of Main Street Unionville. This free, family-friendly festival transforms the neighbourhood into a celebration of live music, community, food, and summer fun. Spend the weekend strolling between stages, discovering talented artists, and enjoying live jazz against one of Markham’s most charming backdrops.
What to Expect:
Markham Jazz Festival is about more than great music. It is a full summer weekend experience. Throughout the festival, live performances take over stages and venues around Unionville, creating plenty of opportunities to stop, listen, and discover something new. From intimate performances to lively outdoor sets, each location brings its own atmosphere to the festival.
Between performances, explore everything Main Street Unionville has to offer. Grab a drink on a patio, stop for lunch or dinner at a local restaurant, browse one-of-a-kind shops, or explore festival vendors while the music carries through the street.
This Years Lineup: Jazz Worth Sticking Around For
The 2026 lineup brings together an exciting mix of celebrated Canadian performers, international influences, rising talent, and artists pushing jazz in new directions. Expect everything from Latin jazz and Afro-Cuban rhythms to blues, soul, contemporary jazz, and plenty of music that will have you moving.
Featured artists:
- Ranee Lee: One of Canada’s most celebrated jazz vocalists, JUNO Award winner Ranee Lee brings decades of experience and an unmistakable voice to the festival stage. Known as “Montreal’s Queen of Jazz,” her performance is one longtime jazz fans will not want to miss.
- Amanda Martinez: Get ready for warm vocals, Latin rhythms, and plenty of energy. Toronto-based singer and composer Amanda Martinez performs Latin jazz in Spanish, bringing a vibrant sound that is perfect for a summer afternoon in Unionville.
- Suzie Vinnick: Blues, roots, and jazz come together with singer, guitarist, and songwriter Suzie Vinnick. A three-time JUNO nominee, her soulful vocals and standout guitar playing make her a great addition to this year’s lineup.
- Joaquín Nuñez & Habana Safari: This Canadian-Cuban group is ready to bring some serious rhythm to Main Street Unionville. Led by percussionist Joaquín Nuñez, Habana Safari blends traditional Afro-Cuban music with modern Latin jazz for a lively performance made for moving along to.
And that is only a taste of what is coming. With even more musicians performing throughout the weekend, part of the fun is wandering between stages and discovering a new favourite along the way.
Event Details
Dates: Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August 23, 2026
Location: Main Street Unionville (check website for specific stage locations)
Admission: FREE
More info: Markhamjazzfestival.com
Parking: Check the Markham Jazz Festival website for current parking and shuttle information.
Make a Weekend of It
With live music filling the streets, patios ready for a mid-festival bite, and plenty to explore between performances, Markham Jazz Festival is an easy excuse to spend a summer weekend in Unionville. Whether you already know your jazz or simply love live music and a great atmosphere, grab some friends, find your favourite stage, and let the music lead the way.
