One of British Columbia’s signature summer events kicks off today as the Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival opens for four days of world-class music, art, and cultural experiences throughout the picturesque village of Fort Langley.
Designed to make the arts accessible to everyone, the festival – now in its ninth year – invites residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy a vibrant weekend featuring free community programming alongside ticketed concerts beginning this afternoon (Thursday, July 23).
Throughout the weekend, on Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26, thousands of festival visitors are expected to take in two full days of free programming, including live performances on the festival’s two outdoor stages – featuring an all-Canadian lineup.
At the Fort Langley Community Hall main stage, audiences will experience nine bands spanning a range of genres, from Gypsy jazz and Indigenous contemporary music to soulful grooves and a celebration of Joni Mitchell’s music.
READ MORE: Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival line-up has something for everyone
The festival also proudly showcases the next generation of jazz talent at the youth and emerging artist stage in the gardens of the Fort Langley Heritage CNR Station, said Dave Quinn, artistic director of the festival.
The festival’s 2026 rising stars Bea Lagrisola and Rowan will take the stage throughout the weekend, alongside other Canadian emerging artists, sharing fresh sounds and perspectives with audiences.
“Supporting up-and-coming artists is a core part of the festival’s mission,” said Quinn.
“The youth and emerging artist stage gives audiences the chance to discover the next generation of talent while providing young musicians with valuable experience performing in front of festival audiences.”
Beyond the music, a full weekend of arts and cultural experiences will take place throughout the village – including facepainting, a colouring station, an art show from the Fort Langley Artists Group, and more family-friendly activities. There are also paid art workshops available during the weekend, including a beginner’s guide to acrylic painting, a Salish weaving workshop, and a Mehndi workshop.
Complementing the festival’s two days of free programming are ticketed headline performances across all four days.
The 2026 festival opens Thursday afternoon at the Chief Sepass Theatre with Big Band Jazz: Daniel Hersog Orchestra with Joanna Wallfisch, which features a dynamic 16-piece jazz orchestra.
This evening, a sold-out theatre will be transported back in time to experience The Passion of Amy Winehouse: Back to Black, a tribute celebrating the iconic singer’s jazz-inspired legacy.
The festival concludes Sunday night with Generation X Meets Next Gen: Laila Biali, where the Grammy-nominated and multi-Juno Award-winning vocalist will perform alongside some of Canada’s most promising emerging jazz artists.
One of the festival’s most popular events – the Lorval Developments Cool Blues Show – is expanding to two nights of music under the stars after last year’s sell-out.
Running Friday and Saturday, July 24 and 25, at Fort Langley Community Park, the event features eight headline acts over two nights, alongside a beer garden, whisky and wine tastings, food trucks and outdoor activities, explained said Karen Zukas, the festival’s executive director.
“At a time when arts organizations everywhere are facing rising costs, we’re incredibly proud to continue offering two full days of free programming while bringing world-class artists to Fort Langley,” said Zukas.
“Whether you’re attending a headline concert, discovering an emerging artist, or simply wandering through the village and taking in the music, art and culture, there’s something for everyone. Keeping a festival like this accessible takes a community, and we’re grateful for the support that allows us to keep this tradition alive and growing.”