Lancaster Jazz Festival will not happen in 2026

Lancaster Jazz Festival will take a break this year - it has been announced.

The annual showcase of jazz music, which traditionally takes place during the autumn at various city venues, will return in 2027, said organisers.

Lancaster Jazz Festival has been running since 2011 and it was originally hoped that this year's event would take place in September, bringing together the best contemporary jazz from around the UK as well as great local and community talent.

But in an announcement on Wednesday, the festival team said: "It’s with a heavy heart we have to let you know that there will be no Lancaster Jazz Festival this year.

"Despite extensive efforts, we have been unable to secure funding from our primary funder and subsequently, we are not able to deliver the festival in 2026.

"Since 2011, we have hosted a festival in the city of Lancaster, presenting artists and audiences with a welcoming space to come together and share in the celebration of contemporary jazz music.

"It’s been a hub for connectivity, collaboration and a spring board for some of the UK’s most innovative artists.

"We know that this will be disappointing news, and we share that disappointment deeply.

"We’ve explored multiple options to take things forward but we hold strong these two core principles: that we will not compromise on the quality and experience for artists and audiences, and that we will not ask people to work for free.

"We plan to be back as big and bright as ever in 2027.

"Until then,

"Dave, Lucy and the Lancaster Jazz Festival team."

There was an outpouring of support on the festival social media pages after the announcement.

Lancaster venue The Gregson Centre posted: "Loads of love from all of us at the Gregson! We will miss you loads this year. What you do for our city and our community is brilliant and we can’t wait for you to be back in 2027."

Sam said: "Very sorry to hear this, but totally respect your decision not to compromise. Your work on the festival has been amazing, and I look forward to future jazz in Lancaster, whatever form it takes."

And Johnny said: "Oh no! That's terrible news. Lancaster Jazz Festival is one of the most interesting and progressive festivals in this country, it's such an important part of the scene!

"Thank you all for your continued hard work, I know it's hugely appreciated by many of us - musicians and audiences."