The first performers for Pori Jazz summer 2026 have been announced. Taking to the stage are Juanes, Pale Jay and Finnish star Vesala, among others. Now in its 59th year, the festival takes place from 10–18 July 2026 and is one of Finland’s most significant and long-running music events.
Thursday 16 July’s main concert will feature Italian guitar virtuoso Matteo Mancuso and rising American vibraphonist Sasha Berliner, one of the most exciting young voices in contemporary jazz.
On Friday 17 July, the spotlight turns to one of today’s most acclaimed jazz vocalists, Cécile McLorin Salvant, alongside soul singer Jalen Ngonda, often dubbed the Marvin Gaye of the 21st century. The same day also sees the arrival of the enigmatic Pale Jay, the masked soul artist sometimes described as the Banksy of the music world. Also appearing in Pori is drummer Salin, known for seamlessly blending Asian rhythms with soul and funk.
Saturday 18 July brings Latin rhythms courtesy of global star Juanes. The day’s line-up also includes Victor Wooten & The Wooten Brothers, combining jazz with groove-driven rhythm music, and New York vocal trio Say She She, known for their discodelic soul sound.
Among Finnish artists, festival-goers can look forward to seeing pop star Vesala on Friday, while Mikko Kuustonen celebrates 50 years as a recording artist on Thursday. On Saturday, cult favourite Ricky-Tick Big Band & Julkinen Sana return with an updated line-up.
The first names have now been confirmed, with more artists to be announced in early 2026, when the main headliners for Kirjurinluoto will be revealed. Recent years have seen major acts such as Sting and Pet Shop Boys top the bill, so further big announcements are still to come.
Tickets for summer 2026 are already on sale, with prices rising on 1 January 2026. Open day tickets and three-day passes are available at early-bird prices until 31 December: open tickets from €115 and three-day passes from €209.