Everything you need to know about the Montreal Jazz Festival

Jun 29 2016, 10:23 pm

Montreal’s 36th annual International Jazz Festival kicks off tonight! Running until July 9th, this year’s jazz festival promises to be the best ever.

Described as “the best in the world,” by a number of world-renowned musicians, Montreal is proud to play host to this famous musical festival once again. Get ready for 11 days and nights of celebration, 9 outdoor stages, and 3000 artists from all over the world. With two-thirds of its programming presented free of charge, you don’t have to save a pretty penny to indulge in some of the most amazing music you’ll ever hear.

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To give you an idea of just how popular the Montreal International Jazz Festival is, past headliners have included Prince, Ray Charles, and Norah Jones. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, it is the largest jazz festival in the world.

A perfect blend of R&B, soul, funk, and jazz, this year’s star-studded lineup is sure to be a treat for Montrealers and visitors alike. The main attractions of Jazz Festival 2016 include Melody Gardot, Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys, Sharon Jones, Lauryn Hill, Kool & the Gang, and Noel Gallagher & the High Flying Birds. For a complete list of all the artists performing this year, click here.

Looking to enjoy the festival as a family? Be sure to check out the Musical Park located in Quartier des Spectacles. Tailor-made for families, the Musical Park contains face painting, a fruit bar, and the opportunity for your children to try out a wide range of instruments from saxophones to drums.

There is also a new addition with relaxation areas offered by TD as well as new bleacher seating with 160 seats alongside the Place des Festivals, right on the frontlines of all the concerts.

Hungry? The Festival site has everything to satisfy your hunger. Chef Jérôme Ferrer is launching his first-ever food truck, and restaurant Aux Vivres will host a kiosk offering delicious vegetarian menus. You can now also use your credit and debit cards making it more convenient than ever.

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The festival will take place at Quartier des Spectacles and can be accessed via foot, bicycle, public transit, or taxi. You are able to drive to the site but due to congestion, the Jazz Festival team recommends one of the aforementioned modes of transportation.

Montreal Jazz Festival

Where: Quartier des Spectacles
When: June 29-July 9
Tickets: Some shows are free and some require tickets, click here for more information

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