Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival

In late May, the charming seaside town of Sidmouth in Devon transforms into a lively music stage for the Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival. For one sun-soaked weekend each year, the town is filled with the sound of soulful music and happy crowds. Over four days of the bank holiday weekend, music lovers gather by the sea to soak up world-class performances. Set in the picturesque Blackmore Gardens and throughout the town, the festival offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It is a celebration of jazz, blues and related roots genres – where vibrant rhythms and smooth melodies mingle with the fresh sea breeze.

For everyone from jazz purists to blues enthusiasts, the festival’s eclectic lineup of genres and artists offers something special. Jazz, swing, soul, funk, gospel, Latin and roots music all fill the programme, ensuring an exciting variety. Internationally acclaimed headliners stand alongside talented regional musicians and up-and-coming acts. From foot-stomping blues bands to laid-back jazz quartets, the schedule is packed with surprises around every corner. Each year brings a fresh blend of performances, but always with the festival's signature joyful, inclusive vibe.

The heart of the festival is Blackmore Gardens, a beautiful walled outdoor venue in Sidmouth. Its open-air main stage hosts headline concerts each evening and lively music sessions throughout the day. Just outside the gardens, a second stage called the Soul Food & Love Local Stage spotlights rising local talent in a casual lawn setting, alongside tasty food vendors. Meanwhile, free shows spill into nearby pubs, cafes and listening rooms around town, creating a vibrant fringe festival atmosphere. It is easy to hop between events and soak up live music all over Sidmouth.

This festival is very welcoming for families and newcomers alike. Visitors often describe a laid-back picnic vibe, with benches and grassy areas giving a casual spot to relax with friends while taking in the music. Local food stalls and an on-site bar serve tasty bites and regional ales or soft drinks. Kids can join fun music workshops or simply dance along, while grown-ups groove to classic tunes. The festival's emphasis on community means it is as much a social gathering as a musical one – a chance to meet fellow fans in the warmth of Devon hospitality.

When the music pauses, Sidmouth itself is a delight to explore. Take time to wander along the historic seafront, relax on the beach, or stroll through lush coastal gardens. The town’s cafes, pubs and shops add to the friendly atmosphere – some even host impromptu jazz or blues sessions during the festival. Many visitors extend their trip to tour nearby attractions, from dramatic sea cliffs to rolling countryside. All of this means a Sidmouth Jazz & Blues weekend often becomes a memorable Devon mini-break.

In all, the Sidmouth International Jazz & Blues Festival is a highlight of Devon's spring calendar, celebrated for its friendly vibe and excellent music. It is an event where seasoned jazz enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike can enjoy soulful tunes against a stunning coastal backdrop. Whether you are tapping your feet to blues guitar riffs or sipping a drink as smooth saxophone lines fill the air, the weekend promises unforgettable musical moments. Come join this celebration of rhythm and melody in one of the South West's most picturesque towns.