Jozenji StreetJazz Festival 2026

• September 13, 2026 at 12:35 pm
  Event date:
• September 14, 2026 at 12:35 pm
  Event end:

Feel the Rhythm in the City — Celebrate Music at Jozenji StreetJazz Festival 2026!

About the Festival

A free, outdoor, community music festival in the heart of Sendai. For two days, the city transforms into a stage where everyone—from performers and staff to passersby—can enjoy music together.

Key Concepts

1. The City Becomes the StagePerformances take place at around 40 street locations across Sendai, including the iconic zelkova-lined Jozenji Street. Everyday places—shopping arcades, building entrances, parks, and plazas—are turned into vibrant stages filled with music.
2. All Genres WelcomeMusic of every genre is welcome here. “StreetJazz” is more than a musical style—it’s a spirit of freedom rooted in the jazz born in the streets of the American South. This festival celebrates that freedom by welcoming diverse artists, styles, and ages.
3. Created by the CommunityThe festival is made possible by musicians, listeners, local shops, sponsors, organizers, volunteers, and professional staff—all working together out of love for music to create a festive atmosphere with a community spirit.

Event Dates

September 13 (Sat) – 14 (Sun), 2026 Time: 11:00–17:30 (some stages until 20:00) Location: Sendai city center Stages: Around 40 Rain or shine

Location

Sendai, Japan – primarily along Jozenji-dori Street and surrounding areas.

History

The first event was held in 1991 with just 9 venues, 25 musicians, and 5,000 attendees. It’s been held every September since, expanding to a two-day event in 2000. Even in 2011, after the Great East Japan Earthquake, the festival continued thanks to nationwide support. Now, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

Support the Festival: Club STREET JAZZ

Become a fan club member and help support the festival through monthly contributions. Trial Course – 550 yen/month

• Early access to pre-order limited edition merchandise
• Access to members-only merchandise
• Optional name listing on the website and event report
• Brochure and event report mailed to your home
• Monthly digital content
• Occasional activity reports

STREET JAZZ Course – 880 yen/month All Trial Course benefits, plus:

• Special event pass
• Annual renewal gift (for those who remain subscribed through March)

Note: Membership fees are not eligible for donation tax deductions.

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Band Entry – Call for Performers

Applications Open: April 1, 2026 (12:00) – May 9, 2026 (12:00) Eligibility: No age or genre restrictions. Open to both amateurs and professionals. Please note the festival primarily takes place at outdoor venues. Participation Fee:

• Adults: 3,000 yen/person
• High school students and younger: 1,000 yen/person (Additional charges for use of permanent instruments)

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Location