Medicine Hat JazzFest kicks off 30th year on Tuesday

The June 20 event will feature performances by the Sierra Hager Fusion Project, Klave Latin Band and the Ray Charles Tribute Orchestra.

Hutchinson says the move to Medalta will create a different atmosphere while maintaining the festival’s tradition of combining music, food and community gathering.

That event will run from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday.

The festival also includes free workshops from Tuesday to Friday at 2 p.m. on the grounds of the Esplanade, a jazz-themed film presentation at the Medicine Hat Public Library on Saturday at 2 p.m., and evening performances throughout the week.

“There are a few artists that require grand pianos; the fun thing is, we’ve shifted to the theatre in the Esplanade,” Hutchinson said.

“We’re putting a couple of the bands on the stage with the audience. The audience isn’t in the seats out front. They’re sitting on the stage with the musicians, which is a really unique experience.”

Hutchinson says the format has been successful at other Canadian jazz festivals and offers a more intimate concert experience.

To help attract younger audiences, organizers have expanded youth pricing. Anyone aged 25 and under can attend individual performances for $20, while a youth festival pass provides access to all events for $80. This is half-price, with the standard pass at $160.

Hutchinson says reaching the 30-year mark is a significant achievement, noting few festivals in Canada can claim that level of longevity.

He says organizers are excited to continue bringing live jazz music to the Medicine Hat community.

A digital festival guide can be viewed here.

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READ: Photo display set up at downtown Medicine Hat restaurant to highlight 30 years of JazzFest (June 10, 2026)

by Jesse Gill

Medicine Hat JazzFest kicks off 30th year on Tuesday

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