Live music band performing outside Imperial Hotel entrance with elegant decor, offering a vibrant stay experience.

Jazz band performs joyfully at Imperial Hotel entrance, showcasing vibrant atmosphere and elegant charm.

Jazz band performing live in a cosy hotel lounge, creating a vibrant atmosphere with a cheerful drummer and warm lighting.

Guinness Cork Jazz Festival

23rd October 2026 – 25th October 2026

Internationally renowned, the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival features over 1,000 musicians in dozens of performances in venues citywide over the weekend. When it comes to hotels in Cork city, The Imperial Hotel, being the most central hotel in Cork City, is in the heart of it all. An ideal location to base yourself for the weekend within walking distance of the best restaurants and music venues.

This October Bank Holiday Weekend, our guests can look forward to an unforgettable programme of live jazz music in Helena’s Restaurant and Fitzgerald’s Bar, where talented musicians will set the tone for a lively, soulful atmosphere.

Located just steps away from the main stages and street performances, The Imperial Hotel is the ideal base for experiencing all that the Cork Jazz Festival 2026 has to offer. After a day of music and celebrations, retreat to the elegance of our guest rooms and wake up refreshed, ready to do it all again.

Our Guinness Cork Jazz Weekend Line Up

LIVE MUSIC IN FITZGERALD’S BAR & HELENA’S RESTAURANT

Lively jazz band performing in elegant hotel lounge, with vintage décor and vibrant lighting, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Fitzgerald’s Bar Line Up

Friday 23rd October

3pm – The Roaring Forties

5.30pm – The Tomcats

8pm – Ladies Who Lunch

10.30pm – The Songstree Quintet

Saturday 24th October

3pm – The Roaring Forties

5.30pm – The Tomcats

8pm – Ladies Who Lunch

10.30pm – The Swing Bandits

Sunday 25th October

2.30pm – The Roaring Forties

5pm – The Tomcats

7.30pm – Ladies Who Lunch

10pm – Chaupique

Elegant saxophonist performs in warm, ambient hotel lounge. Enhancing the perfect evening with live jazz music.

Helena’s Restaurant Line Up

Friday 23rd October

2.30pm – Emily Donoghue Duo

5pm – Luke Thomas & The Swing Cats

7.30pm – Hyde Park Brass

10pm – The Off Beats

Saturday 24th October

2.30pm – Manic Jazz Preacher

5pm – The Off Beats

7.30pm – Soul Driven

10pm – Sway

Sunday 25th October

1pm – Emily Donoghue Duo

3.30pm – The Off Beats

6pm – The Swing Cats

8.30pm – Code Of Behaviour

10pm – The Swing Bandits

Please Note: Line Up & Timings are subject to change without prior notice

The first festival began on 27 October 1978 and has been held every year since. Bringing Jazz back to its roots we aim to deliver an experience like no other as we dim the lights, sip champagne and listen to smooth music all night.

The Jazz Festival at The Imperial Hotel is always a fantastic weekend of live music and being located in the heart of Cork City you’ll be in the centre of all the live action.

For those looking to spending the weekend with us enjoying some fantasic Jazz music, all acts are free to enter and are on a walk-in basis so no need to book!

Want to extend your weekend? Book your stay now and secure your spot at the most exciting jazz event of the year. Whether you’re joining us for a night of entertainment or spending the entire weekend soaking up the smooth sounds, The Imperial Hotel is your front-row seat to the magic of Cork Jazz Weekend.

Please note that lunch and dinner service will not be available from 23rd–25th October due to Cork Jazz Weekend.

Our team will be happy to provide you with a list of recommended restaurants and dining options nearby. We apologise for any inconvenience and look forward to welcoming you for Cork Jazz Weekend.

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