Music lovers can officially start their countdown. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has announced the highly anticipated lineup for the St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026, promising an electrifying blend of jazz, reggae, gospel, Caribbean fusion, and global sounds when the festival returns from April 30 to May 10, 2026.
Tickets for the festival go on sale online on Sunday, February 1, 2026, giving fans the chance to secure their spot.
The festival opens with high energy on Thursday, April 30, with an opening night centered heavily on reggae. Jamaican reggae stalwart Capleton headlines the evening, joined by fellow Jamaicans D’yani and Valiant, alongside Saint Lucian favorites Amber Digby, LM Stone, and Shervon Sealy, setting the tone for the remaining festival days.
Jazz purists will be treated to a standout experience on Tuesday, May 5, when Pure Jazz takes center stage. The night features Grammy-winning bassist and vocalist Esperanza Spalding, Trinidadian jazz powerhouse Chantal Esdelle & Moyenne, and local standouts Camille Charlemagne and Leandra Modeste.
Spiritual upliftment follows on Wednesday, May 6, with Kingdom Night, showcasing gospel heavyweight Tye Tribbett and Nigerian star Ada Ehi, supported by an all-star lineup including Shirleyann Cyril-Mayers and Nigela St. Clair-Daniel.
Jazz returns on Thursday, May 7, with Pure Jazz Night Two, headlined by the legendary Branford Marsalis Quartet, alongside Jesse Billy and Echoes – Fusion of Arts, continuing the festival’s rich tradition of world-class musicianship.
On Friday, May 8, the spotlight shifts to Caribbean Fusion, bringing together generations and genres. The night features The Original Wailers ft. Al Anderson, Skip Marley, Kes the Band, Dexta Daps, and a distinctly Saint Lucian flavor with Melange.
Global rhythms take over on Saturday, May 9, during World Beats, headlined by African megastar Tems. She is joined by international R&B favorite Ella Mai, Princess’ Lover, Lu City, X-Man, and more, in what promises to be one of the festival’s most dynamic nights.
The festival culminates in grand style on Sunday, May 10, with The Ultimate Celebration, featuring international music icon Billy Ocean, soul powerhouse Beverley Knight, and Mervin Wilkinson and Friends, with additional acts still to be announced.
The official lineup reveal, shared via the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority’s social media platforms, has already sparked excitement across the region and beyond. With its diverse programming and global appeal, the St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026 is once again poised to reinforce the island’s reputation as a premier destination where culture, music, and artistry meet.
