Jazz and blues in Quebec: the best festivals and bars for live music
Published on March 30, 2026 • Collection
Jazz and blues play a significant role in Quebec’s cultural landscape. For over a century, these genres have thrived through concerts, festivals and local venues that attract curious visitors and enthusiasts alike. Montreal plays a central role in this history. As early as the 1920s, the city became a major hub for jazz and the birthplace of the great pianist Oscar Peterson. Today, this musical legacy shines through at the prestigious Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, but also at many other festivals around Quebec.
Fun facts 🎷
The Festival international de Jazz de Montréal holds the Guinness World Record for the biggest jazz festival in the world.
🎺 This 10-day festival boasts more than 3,000 artists, 150 paid concerts and more than 350 free shows.
🎹 In 2025, more than 2 million visitors took part in this unique celebration in Quebec's metropolis.
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