Markham Jazz Festival “Plays On” with big talent, new layout

When summer starts to wind down, Unionville Main Street will come alive with the rich and soulful rhythms of jazz. The 28th annual Markham Jazz Festival returns August 16 and 17, spotlighting more than 30 award-winning and emerging Canadian artists across four unique stages.

The festivities begin with Hotspots—a series of pre-festival performances—on August 8 at Rouge River Brewing Company and August 15 at Draco Restaurant in the Toronto Marriott Markham.

This year’s theme, “Play On,” reflects the festival’s resilient spirit, as it adapts to ongoing roadwork along Main Street. Rather than hit pause, organizers have creatively reimagined the layout to maintain the same high-calibre of musical experiences.

One major change sees the Main Stage moving from the Unionville Millennium Bandstand to the Curling Club parking lot, now dubbed the North Stage. This strategic move ensures uninterrupted performances, improved crowd safety, and full accessibility.

The festival’s footprint expands with two stages at the Varley Art Gallery: one outdoors on the patio, and a second indoors offering more intimate sets. Meanwhile, the McKay Wine & Beer Garden—tucked behind the McKay Art House—adds a fourth location to this vibrant musical map.

From the stirring opening notes of Waleed Kush and Rachel Therrien to the genre-crossing energy of closing acts Caity Gyorgy on Saturday and reggae icon Jay Douglas closing the stage acts on Sunday, the weekend promises a rich tapestry of sound, joy and community. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or a first-time listener, the curated lineup offers something to inspire every palate.

Between sets, festival goers are encouraged to explore the charm of Unionville, where vendors, boutiques, artisans, and diverse dining options await. Participating restaurants, Jakes on Main, Watercolour, and Il Postino will also serve as Hotspots on August 16 and 17, with some offering live music until as late as 11 p.m., while the Duchess of Markham joins the lineup on Sunday to extend the celebration into the community.

Returning for the 13th year, TD Bank Group sponsors the festival through its Ready Commitment program. Festival Chair Linda Briggs notes, “Support from our sponsors is crucial for our survival, especially now, as rising costs put many festivals at risk of discontinuation. We are truly grateful to our sponsors and to everyone who attends.” Briggs also encourages visitors to shop local and show support to participating vendors.

To ease access, free shuttle buses will run continuously throughout the weekend.

As the final notes echo into summer’s twilight, the Markham Jazz Festival promises to leave behind more than music, sparking memories that linger long after the last note has been played.

For performer lineups, stage details, and full schedule, visit www.markhamjazzfestival.com.

*Story by Camille Hannays-King

Main photo: Waleed Kush will open the Markham Jazz Festival with rhythm, roots, and resonance.