Bude Jazz Festival: Four Days of Music by the Sea
Every year, the sound of swing, blues and New Orleans rhythms fills the streets of Bude as the Bude Jazz Festival returns to the town. Taking place from 1–4 September 2026, the much-loved event will once again bring four days of live music, vibrant performances and a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere to Cornwall’s north coast.
Whether you’re a devoted jazz fan or simply looking for a lively late-summer event by the sea, the festival offers an unforgettable mix of music, community spirit and coastal charm.
We can’t wait to welcome you back to Bude for another unforgettable celebration of jazz by the sea.
Jazz Festival FAQs
Why does the Festival not use other venues?
There used to be a lot more venues available in the past, but these no longer function as venues; hotels have closed or been converted to flats. In recent years it has been a struggle to find the venues we have.
Why do you not have Bandstand Concerts?
A few years ago we regularly used the bandstand for free gigs, but we started being charged for its use and together with the cost of bands it became too large a drain on Festival resources. Also, at that time, the Lifeboat Day events provided refreshments and use of chairs from their marquee, but this no longer occurs.
Why has the Parade route changed?
With increasing traffic, and the increasing age of musicians, a long parade route up through the town is no longer practicable. Even the shorter parade route, which included the Triangle, had become harder to steward with the people available, and a different route was used in 2025. This route included the Canal wharf area, the Castle, and judging of the brolly parade on the grass area by the Bude Methodist Church and was favourably commented on by many people.
What accommodation is available in the Bude area?
There is a wide variety of accommodation available in the area including hotels, guest houses, bed & breakfast, self-catering, caravan and camping sites. The Tourist Information Centre (01288 354240) can provide help with accommodation. The Jazz Festival organisers are not able to help with this.
View accommodation here…
Which venues allow dogs?
Dogs are allowed in Upstairs Social, Carriers Inn, Bude Methodist Church, and in the bar part of the Brendon Arms. All other venues allow assistance dogs only.
Which venues provide facilities for disabled people?
Upstairs Social, and the Carriers Inn do not have disabled access or toilets, the Golf Club does not have disabled toilets. Other venues have disabled access and toilets.
Why is dancing not permitted at all venues?
There are dancing areas at the Parkhouse (the main dance venue) and at Bude Methodist Church and the Golf Club. Other venues need the space for audience seating.
Which venues provide food and drink?
All venues have licensed bars except Bude Methodist Church. Food is available at all venues apart from Upstairs Social; it varies from cakes etc to full meals – so please enquire with the venues. Please do not bring your own food or drink into venues – we are very dependent on the goodwill of the venues we have and must not abuse that.
Where can we book tickets?
Stroller tickets are available in advance via the TIC (01288 354240) or via the form at the bottom of this page. Payment can be by card or cheque (payable to Bude Jazz 2026). Stroller tickets allow entry to all gigs over the four-day festival. During the festival Stroller tickets are also available in the Jazz Office at the Falcon and single gigs tickets can be bought in advance (card payments available). Entry to individual gigs is payable on the door (cash only).
What is a 4 Day Event Stroller Ticket?
The 4 Day Event Stroller Ticket is the ultimate pass for any jazz lover attending this year’s festival. With this ticket, you can enjoy unlimited access to all venues and events taking place throughout the four days of the festival. There’s no need to worry about purchasing individual tickets, as this pass gives you access to everything. Simply show your armband to the stewards on the door, and you’re good to go! Don’t miss out on the jazz event of the year.
What is a 1 Day Stroller Ticket?
Experience the ultimate convenience with our 1 Day Stroller Ticket for the jazz festival. This ticket grants you access to all venues and events taking place on the specified date, allowing you to enjoy the music and atmosphere to the fullest. Simply show your armband to the steward on the door for hassle-free entry and guaranteed fun. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in a day of jazz and entertainment.
What arrangements are allowed for ticket refunds?
Ticket refunds are not normally permitted but in the event of death or serious illness arrangements can be made via the TIC, less an administrative charge.
What merchandise is available?
Tote bags, pens, and lanyards, inscribed Bude Jazz Festival, are available from the Jazz Office during the festival and from selected venues.
When are printed programmes available?
It is aimed to have the printed programme available from later in July; this contains the full details of bands, times, intervals, venues, and band line-ups. It is not produced earlier so that band line-ups can be as accurate as possible.
What outside free events are there?
The Parade takes place on the Tuesday morning and opens the festival. There is a strolling band performing at several different locations around the town on two lunchtimes. There is also amateur busking on the terrace outside the Falcon every morning.
Where is the festival advertised?
The festival is advertised in specialist jazz publications, through flyers sent to jazz clubs and venues, through flyers in TIC’s etc, through the jazz festival website www.budejazzfestival.info, and with local banners.