Taormina Jazz Festival
International jazz between the Public Gardens and the Ancient Theatre of Taormina
About Taormina Jazz
Signature jazz in the pearl of the Ionian Sea
The Taormina Jazz Festival is one of the most evocative jazz events in Sicily. Every summer, in the heart of Taormina, in the province of Messina, the festival brings world-class international jazz to two locations of extraordinary beauty: the Public Gardens (the historic Villa Comunale) and the imposing Ancient Theatre, overlooking the sea and Mount Etna. The event is organized by Feliciotto Concept Store together with the Tao Jazz Association and the Taormina Jazz Association, with the support of the Municipality of Taormina.
A blend of nature, history, and great music
The festival stands out for a formula that weaves top-tier music with landscape heritage. Most concerts at the Public Gardens are free of charge, while the grand finale is held in the unique setting of the Ancient Theatre, one of the most famous Hellenistic monuments in the world. Over the years, the lineup has featured jazz legends and rising stars, confirming Taormina as one of the most coveted summer musical hubs in the Mediterranean.
Artists from all over the world
The Taormina Jazz Festival has built its reputation on bold, international programming, alternating between Italian masters and global stars. Renowned pianists, double bassists, drummers, and singers bring sounds to the Taormina stage that range from contemporary jazz to Afro-Cuban roots, from mainstream to the most refined experimentation.
An experience in the heart of Sicily
Attending a festival concert means experiencing Taormina in one of its most vibrant seasons: strolls along Corso Umberto, sunsets over the Gulf of Naxos, and the magic of live music under the stars. The festival has become a highly anticipated event not only for jazz enthusiasts but also for the many visitors who choose the Sicilian town every summer, contributing to the cultural identity of Taormina and all of Sicily.
- Where: Public Gardens and Ancient Theatre, Taormina (ME)
- When: July
- Admission: Many free concerts, grand finale ticketed
- Genres: Contemporary, international jazz
Taormina Jazz — edition 2026
Taormina Jazz Festival 2026 — 13th edition
The thirteenth edition of the Taormina Jazz Festival is held from July 23 to 26, 2026, once again between the Public Gardens and the Ancient Theatre of Taormina. The program alternates free admission events with a ticketed grand finale in the setting of the Hellenistic monument.
Program
- July 23, 9:00 PM — Public Gardens (free admission): Alfredo Rodríguez Trio, with the Cuban pianist and composer accompanied by Panagiotis Andreou on double bass and Michael Olivera on drums.
- July 25, 9:00 PM — Public Gardens (free admission): Roberto Gatto Quartet feat. Pietro Tonolo, with Alessandro Presti on trumpet, Alfonso Santimone on piano, and Gabriele Evangelista on double bass.
- July 26, 9:00 PM — Ancient Theatre (grand finale): Cécile McLorin Salvant, with Sullivan Fortner on piano, Yasushi Nakamura on double bass, and Kyle Poole on drums. Tickets on Ticketone.
Programme Taormina Jazz 2026
Highlights Taormina Jazz 2026
Prices Taormina Jazz 2026
Practical information — Taormina Jazz
How to get there
By car: A18 Messina-Catania motorway, Taormina exit; the historic center is pedestrianized, so it is advisable to use the parking lots (Lumbi, Porta Catania) and the escalators or the shuttle bus. By train: Taormina-Giardini station, then bus or taxi to the center. By plane: Catania-Fontanarossa airport is about 60 km away.
Tickets
Most concerts at the Public Gardens are free of charge. The final concert at the Ancient Theatre is ticketed, with tickets available on Ticketone.
Tips
For the Ancient Theatre, it is recommended to arrive early. In high season, it is advisable to book accommodation well in advance.
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Where does it take place — Taormina Jazz
Giardini Pubblici e Teatro Antico di Taormina