RYE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL

Rye came alive with the vibrant sounds of jazz and blues over the August Bank Holiday weekend, as the Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival celebrated its thirteenth successful edition. Held from Thursday 21 to Monday 25 August, the festival welcomed thousands of music lovers to the historic town, basking in glorious sunshine and an unforgettable atmosphere.

This year’s programme showcased a wonderfully eclectic mix of live performances, with seven exceptional headline concerts hosted at the stunning St Mary’s Church, Rye. Audiences were treated to unforgettable sets from acclaimed artists including Nubiyan Twist, Toby Lee, Courtney Pine, Ian Shaw, Polly Gibbons & James Pearson, Ruby Turner, Davina and the Vagabonds, and the James Taylor Quartet.

Beyond the headline concerts at St Mary’s church Rye’s streets and venues were alive with music. A vibrant fringe programme offered a mix of free and ticketed events at local favourites such as The Grapevine Champagne and Jazz Bar, The Winery, The Ship Inn, Layfield’s, The Olde Bell, William the Conqueror at Rye Harbour, and The Lookout Rye.

The festival's outdoor performances brought an electric energy to the town centre, with free live music drawing large crowds to the Butter Market. Performers included The Marcus Burton Trio, The Connor Selby Trio, The Roger Hubbard Trio, The Fat Brass Marching Band, The Dom Pipkin Trio, The James Morton Trio, The Violet Jive, and Martin Harley — each delivering standout sets to delighted audiences.

Festival Director Ian Bowden shared his pride in the event's ongoing positive impact:

“I am incredibly proud of what the Jazz and Blues Festival brings to the beautiful town of Rye, and the joy it gives to those who attend. The festival continues to make a positive cultural and economic contribution to the region, attracting visitors from across the UK — including London, Birmingham, Leeds, Brighton, Eastbourne, Canterbury, and many more."

“Visitors not only enjoy the music, but also contribute to the local economy by staying in hotels, dining in restaurants, and exploring Rye’s wonderful shops, boutiques, and pubs.”

The festival is delivered by a small, enthusiastic, and independent team, with a strong focus on quality, inclusivity, and community engagement. Ian, along with fellow directors Vicki Haxton and Kate Glover, extended heartfelt thanks to the town of Rye, local venues that hosted live music, the musicians and artists who performed, local businesses who supported the festival through advertising, the generous sponsors and private patrons, our dedicated volunteers, the brilliant production team at On Stage, and photographers KT and Martin Bruce and Tony Ham for capturing the magic of festival.

The festival also proudly supported Rye-based charity The Music Well, raising an impressive £3,000 through public donations.

We look forward to you joining us at the 2026 Rye International Jazz and Blues Festival! 

SAVE THE DATES FOR THE 2026 FESTIVAL - 27 TO THE 31 AUGUST