Jazz at Lincoln Center 2026 continues its role as a global home for jazz, presenting a dynamic season of performances, festivals, competitions, and educational programs in New York City. The 2025–26 season, titled Mother Africa, runs through June 20, 2026, and explores jazz’s deep connections to African musical traditions and the African diaspora through new commissions, tributes, and cross-generational collaborations.

A major highlight of the year is Jazz Congress 2026, held January 7–8 at Frederick P. Rose Hall. This annual gathering brings together jazz artists, educators, presenters, media, and industry leaders from around the world for panels, workshops, and conversations focused on expanding the future of jazz.

The Unity Jazz Festival, taking place January 8–9, 2026, is a two-day celebration featuring more than 20 acclaimed artists and rising stars across multiple stages. The festival includes special tributes, debut performances, and the Jazz Legacies Fellowship Honors All-Star Concert, showcasing masters and emerging voices side by side.

Education remains central to Jazz at Lincoln Center’s mission with the National Collegiate Jazz Championship on January 17–18, 2026. Ten top college and university jazz ensembles compete in a two-day event that includes mentorship from members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and culminating performances in Rose Theater.

Throughout 2026, audiences can also enjoy nightly performances at Dizzy’s Club, intimate concerts in The Appel Room, and large-scale presentations in Rose Theater, all located within Frederick P. Rose Hall at Broadway and 60th Street. Family concerts, artist residencies, and the Essentially Ellington High School Jazz Band Competition & Festival round out a season that balances legacy, innovation, and education.

In 2026, Jazz at Lincoln Center continues to honor jazz’s history while shaping its future—bringing together world-class artists, emerging talent, and audiences from around the globe.