The world’s largest jazz festival is returning to Montreal this summer and its insanely talented lineup are sure to get the city moving and grooving.
Now in its 42nd edition, the Montreal International Jazz Festival will run from June 30 to July 9. And this year organizers have announced dozens of indoor and outdoor shows; many of which are completely free of charge.
Here are five free gigs you’ll definitely want to check out.
Tash Sultana (June 30)
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Often described “one-person band,” Tash Sultana is known for exploring and merging genres like psychedelic rock, reggae, soul, RnB, and hip hop in their music. The Australian artist behind the 2016 hit song “Jungle” will be kicking off the festival at the Scène TD stage on June 30 at 9:30 pm.
Kamasi Washington (July 2)
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This Grammy-nominated artist pairs his incredible stage presence with God-given talent to create some of the funkiest jazz you’ve ever heard. Catch him at Scène TD at Place des festivals on July 2 at 9:30 pm.
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats (July 5)
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With explosive performances on The Tonight Show and Saturday Night Live, this eight-piece ensemble is coming off the success of their third studio album, The Future, released in 2021.
You can see them live on the festival’s main outdoor stage around 9:30 on Tuesday, July 5.
Bran Van 3000 (July 8)
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It’s been 25 years since Bran Van 3000 graced the ears of the music world with their hip song “Drinking in LA” as part of the Montreal band’s Glee album from 1997.
In celebration of the band’s 25-year anniversary, the band will be playing a free outdoor show at Montreal’s Jazz Fest on July 8 at 9:30 pm on the TD Stage at Place des Festivals.
The Roots (July 9)
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Legendary hip hop group and Jimmy Fallon’s house band, The Roots, are set to close out the Jazz Fest with a massive outdoor party.
Thousands are expected to attend, so it’s best to arrive before the start time (9:30 pm) for this one to reserve your spot if you want a good view of the stage.
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