A New Rhythm for the Coast: The Inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival

CAMPBELL WELLMAN SANTA MONICA INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FEST 2026

For years, jazz enthusiasts have looked to Monterey or Montreux for world-class festivals. But this May, the global spotlight shifts to our own coastline. The inaugural Santa Monica International Jazz Festival (May 1–9, 2026) is set to debut, realizing a long-held vision by four-time Grammy winner and legendary bassist Stanley Clarke.

Born from the desire to celebrate the city’s creative energy, the festival arrives at a poignant moment—coinciding with the 100th anniversaries of jazz titans Miles Davis and John Coltrane (both born in 1926) and the centennial of Route 66, which famously ends at the Santa Monica Pier.

The Lineup: Legends and Next-Gen Giants

The festival is spread across iconic venues, blending high-profile ticketed events with free community access.

  • May 1 (The Kickoff): International sensation Hiromi’s Sonicwonder sets the tone at the Orpheum Theatre.

  • May 3 (Community Day): A free, all-day celebration on the Third Street Promenade featuring L.A.’s rising stars, including Elijah Fox and Genevieve Artadi, alongside the Santa Monica High (SAMOHI) Jazz Combo.

  • May 8 (The Tribute): BroadStage hosts a centennial tribute to John Coltrane, led by saxophonists Lakecia Benjamin and Isaiah Collier, joined by an all-star ensemble including Hubert Laws and Stanley Clarke himself.

  • May 9 (The Finale): "A Day in the Park" at Tongva Park. This marks the first full-scale concert at the park, headlined by double 2026 Grammy-winner Kamasi Washington. The day includes a rare set from Stanley Clarke & Friends featuring Stewart Copeland (The Police), plus the Miles Electric Band and KNOWER.

The Campbell Wellman Take

"Whether you're a die-hard jazz fan or just a fan of Santa Monica, an event of this caliber is exactly the kind of energy the city needs right now," says Colin Wellman. "Jazz is about improvisation and resilience—two things this community knows well. Seeing Tongva Park and the Promenade utilized for world-class cultural events isn't just a win for the arts; it’s a win for the city’s overall gravity and prestige. This is the kind of legacy programming that strengthens the neighborhood and makes people proud to call Santa Monica home."

Logistics & Tickets

This is expected to be a high-demand week for Santa Monica.

  • Pro-Tip: The May 3rd Promenade event is free and a great way to experience the festival vibe without a ticket. For the May 9th finale at Tongva Park, VIP and Early Bird tiers are already moving fast.

  • Official Site: smjazzfest.com