Jazz and Blues Festival - One of a Kind

The Harbour Street Jazz and Blues Festival is one of a kind.

Nowhere else can you experience a weekend-long programme of free live music set against a stunning backdrop of well-preserved Victorian architecture. What Oamaru has is special and for that weekend all of those ornately carved and carefully placed blocks of stone reverberate with soul music and the stories of old they tell.

Musicians come from far and wide to play alongside the plethora of talented locals and not only perform in their usual groupings but get together for impromptu performances and some musical networking too. The result is an incredible vibe around a beautiful town that sways with sweet sounds and dancing in the streets.

Not only that, Oamaru’s eateries, cafes and bars offer mouth-watering cuisine and craft beverages to tempt too. The range of venues where you can experience music varies between the grand opener at that fine establishment the Brydone Hotel, to cafes and fine dining establishments such as Cucina, to the Steampunk Playground for the Family Friendly Concert. Harbour Street in the heart of the Historic Precinct comes to life on Saturday with a range of venues and pop-up bars intimately spaced so that music lovers can explore and enjoy jazz and blues all night long.

The atmosphere on the street, in our local businesses, in our cafes, restaurants, bars and parks is an experience to be enjoyed by all with live performances, workshops, a talent quest, the family concert and dance displays. The sound of accomplished Jazz and Blues musicians blended with the architecture, history, great food and gorgeous venues make for a winning combination that you don’t want to miss.

And to round off this community festival the grand finale on the Sunday is the perfect closure to the programme. This year An Elegant Affair brings two amazing acts to town; The Foxy Tones and the Queenstown Jazz Orchestra. For a night of delicious dining, fabulous outfits, dancing and absolute musicality make sure you join in the fun at the Loan and Merc Function Centre, 6pm, Sunday 25th March. Tickets for the Grand Finale are on sale now and available from TicketDirect, Oamaru Opera House box office and Mainstreet Music.