Mark your calendars and get ready to swing into a world of mesmerizing melodies and soulful rhythms at the much anticipated Kensington Market Jazz Festival. Returning to the heart of Toronto's eclectic Kensington Market, this year's festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of jazz in all its vibrant forms.
Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or just looking to groove to some captivating tunes, the Kensington Market Jazz Festival has something for everyone.
Born and raised in Kensington Market, founder, organizer, singer-songwriter, and philanthropist Molly Johnson O.C., has been proud to showcase hundreds of established musicians on the Toronto jazz scene since the festival’s start in 2017, in one of the city's most vibrant neighbourhoods, in the heart of Toronto's heritage district. Over the last seven events, KMJF has presented hundreds of concerts featuring hundreds of Toronto’s jazz musicians, in local venues and with the help of over 150 volunteers.
“This year, the motto is ‘Better, Not Bigger,” says Johnson. “There's an intimate charm and a unique sense of connection that make the Kensington Market Jazz Festival an exceptional experience. This year, the intimate gatherings allow attendees to truly immerse themselves in the music, getting up close and personal with the artists in a way that can be rare elsewhere. We can’t wait to tell you what’s in store!”
Under the Kensington Market Jazz umbrella, there have been many other projects that have come to life, including a winter and spring series in the market, two live recordings, and in April 2018, KMJF Kids Music was launched in partnership with the festival's patron saint, Tom Mihalik of Tom's Place, Yamaha Canada Music Ltd., Discovery Through The Arts, Youth Arcade Studio, and St. Stephen's Community Centre. KMJF has received financial support from the City of Toronto, and the Ontario Arts Council, alongside continued support from Slaight Music and other private donors.
The Kensington Market Jazz Festival is proud to be an artist-driven, volunteer-fuelled festival that has been met with overwhelming support. KMJF wishes to honour the history in the market and strives to ensure that our vision remains in tune with that of the neighbourhood.
Stay tuned for more updates on the lineup, special events, and ticket information. Don't miss out on this spectacular jazz extravaganza right in the heart of Toronto's cultural hub. Let's create unforgettable memories together at the Kensington Market Jazz Festival!
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 29, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 & SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1
Location: Kensington Market, Toronto