Scarborough’s beachside jazz festival is back

17 events – 9 venues – one epic weekend

Set aside 23-25 August and start making your JazzConnect Festival plans at jazzconnect.com.au.

Scarborough’s weekend festival of jazz is back for its third year (after 2023’s hiatus) as JazzConnect – produced by the newly formed ArtConnect Initiative – livening up the foreshore from August 23 to 25.

Proudly presented by the City of Stirling, the festival features 17 free and ticketed events at nine beachside locations, all within easy walk. The City’s Mayor Mark Irwin is encouraging residents and visitors to get along for a full day out or stay for the complete weekend experience.

“Heading into spring, this event gives a fantastic excuse to get amongst all Scarborough has to offer, with entertainment to sample in and around some of the best local spots, from morning ‘til night,” said the Mayor.

Festival Director Karen Caddy said the 3-day program – a jazz degustation of sorts – caters to all musical tastes. With events staggered throughout each day, you can move from one to the next, taking in jazz acts ranging from traditional to swing, soul, R&B, folk, funk, blues, latin and more.

“This weekend is about enjoying great local artists and iconic venues, against Scarborough’s spectacular ocean views; from breezy brunch vibes to black-tie evening glamour, there’s something for music lovers of all ages – from the casual to the connoisseur – including events for the whole family,” said Caddy.

Scarborough Surf Life Saving Club’s Sunset Terrace will transform into the festival’s Hub, hosting two hot-ticket marquee events: a brand new night of elegance with jazz legend Libby Hammer on Saturday; and a Sunday afternoon of smooth bossa nova with Festival Curator Georgie Aue premiering her brand new show.

Outside the Hub, find acts across the weekend at Livid Skate Café & Laneway, Scarborough Sunset Markets, Zoie Café, Rendezvous Hotel, The Sandbar, Scarborough Beach Bar, The Lookout and El Grotto.

New and established Perth talent abounds, from the festival’s opening night with GunFu to the closing party with Steve Hensby Band. In between, chill out with the Basilio Brothers crooning the afternoon away; get a free swing dance lesson while the Matt Cahill Combo plays; enjoy a sunset samba with Marcio Mendes or De Cuba Son’s spicy Cuban rhythms, and lots more.

“As the most multicultural area in Western Australia, we’re pleased to have this diversity reflected in the festival’s wonderful program as well,” said Mayor Irwin.

While more than half the festival’s events are free, tickets for some are limited and all are available now.

JazzConnect Festival is proudly presented by the City of Stirling and produced by ArtConnect Initiative.
Proudly supported by Scarborough Beach Association and Scarboro Surf Life Saving Club.