The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, is an international music festival running from 30 April to 10 May, 2026 in the Caribbean island. Headlining the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026 are Beverley Knight, Billy Ocean, Ronald “Boo” Hinkson and Tems.
Since its inception in 1992, The Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival has grown over the years into the largest jazz festival in the Caribbean.
St Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026 Lineup
The 2026 edition promises to be a globe-spanning celebration of soul, jazz, gospel, reggae and pop that feels tailor-made for music lovers who appreciate both heritage and headline sparkle.
Among the standout names are R&B royalty Brandy and Monica, whose era-defining hits still resonate decades on. Joining them is global Afrobeats star Tems, alongside Grammy-winning British favourite Ella Mai. Reggae heritage comes courtesy of The Original Wailers with Al Anderson and Skip Marley, while UK soul is magnificently represented by Beverley Knight and the ever-suave Billy Ocean.
Opening Night – April 30
The curtain rises with a rich blend of Caribbean rhythm and international flair. Expect fire from reggae powerhouse Capleton, high-energy performances from Valiant, and Dominican dynamism from Asa Bantan. They’re joined by D’YANI, Shervon Sealy, LM Stone and a dash of Americana from US country singer Amber Digby – an opening gambit that sets the tone for a boundary-blurring week.
Pure Jazz – Ladies in Concert (May 5)
Elegance takes centre stage with a celebration of female artistry in jazz. Internationally acclaimed bassist and vocalist Esperanza Spalding headlines, joined by Chantal Esdelle & Moyenne, and Saint Lucian talents Camille Charlemagne and Leandra Modeste. It’s a night for those who like their music refined, expressive and exquisitely performed.
Kingdom Night – May 6
Spiritual uplift and soaring harmonies define this evening of praise and worship. Grammy-nominated gospel powerhouse Tye Tribbett leads a stirring line-up that includes Ada Ehi, Shirleyann Cyril-Mayers, Nigela St. Clair-Daniel and a host of Saint Lucian gospel voices. Expect an atmosphere that’s as joyful as it is moving.
Pure Jazz – Elements of the Arts (May 7)
Jazz meets creative expression in a night where music and the wider arts intertwine. The legendary Branford Marsalis Quartet brings virtuosity and verve, complemented by Jesse Billy and a special multidisciplinary production from the Cultural Development Foundation. For aficionados, this is one to circle in red.
Caribbean Fusion – May 8
If you prefer your festival nights loud, proud and dance-floor ready, this is it. Trinidad favourites Kes the Band headline alongside The Original Wailers, dancehall star Dexta Daps and the Saint Lucian Mélange led by reigning Groovy Soca King Imran Nerdy. It’s a celebration of regional brilliance with irresistible rhythm.
World Beats – May 9
Under an open sky, genres collide in the best possible way. Tems and Ella Mai share top billing in a night that spans Afrobeats, R&B and contemporary pop. Adding a francophone Caribbean twist are Martinique’s X-Man, Lu City, Princess Lover, Les Aiglons de Guadeloupe and October 4 – a reminder that great music knows no borders.
The Ultimate Celebration – May 10 Finale
The closing night pulls out all the stops. Mervin Wilkison and Friends set the party mood before Beverley Knight unleashes her powerhouse vocals. Then comes Billy Ocean, whose feel-good anthems guarantee a mass sing-along. Finally, fresh from their celebrated reunion tour, Brandy and Monica take to the stage to bring the curtain down in true show-stopping style.
For travellers who plan their adventures around live music, this 2026 line-up reads like a bucket list in motion – a week where jazz purists, soul devotees, gospel fans and dancehall lovers can all find their rhythm.
Saint Lucia Arts
2025’s Icon Series featured the work of artist Theresa Hall, honouring her remarkable contributions to the art world. Details of the programme for Saint Lucia Arts 2026 will be announced later.
There will also be Jazz on the Square with three days of jazz.
Sustainability
The festival strives to minimise the use of plastic during the festival, and for the festival to have a minimum impact on Pigeon Island monument.
The History of the The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival
Since humble beginnings in 1992, this festival was grown in stature and has attracted great artists including Sting, Amy Winehouse, Rihanna, Elton John, Herbie Hancock, The Jacksons, Lauryn Hill, Santana and UB40.
Many consider it to be the Caribbean’s premier jazz festival.
From January, details of tickets and packages will be online at www.stlucia.org/jazz. In the meantime read Saint Lucia : a Community United in Music – Travel Begins at 40
Other Things to Do on St Lucia
The Pitons, two steep volcanic peaks and protected as Unesco World Heritage Sites, can be hiked for their route through the rainforest and incredible views from the top.
Sulphur Springs is billed as one of very few drive-in volcanoes, but it also has mud baths that locals say have therapeutic properties.
Pigeon Island National Park features a ruined fort and has pleasant walks. On the west coast is the capital, Castries, that has a colourful market and is worth exploring.
Of course, there are the white sand beaches and great diving and snorkelling. Other sports include fishing, golf, sailing and cricket. For more inspiration, read Mike Pickup’s Things to Do in St Lucia: Caribbean Paradise or Roger Hermiston and Eileen Wise’s St Lucia Holidays with Mustique on the Side.
The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026 Dates
The festival will be from 30 April to 10 May, 2026.
Flights to Saint Lucia
There are flights to Saint Lucia with BA from London Gatwick all year round and Virgin (not in winter).
Hotels in St Lucia
St Lucia has a great array of hotels and resorts.
St Lucia Visa
If you are looking to retire and settle, or make an investment plan in a non-European country with a permanent visa, than St. Lucia is a good choice. The procedure may be a bit challenging, but the expertise of companies such as Global Residence Index can help make the process smooth and easy.
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