Sisters Deirbhile and Eilís Lee, St Luke’s. Image: Darragh Kane

The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival has unveiled an extraordinary line-up for its 45th edition, set to take place over the October bank holiday weekend, from Thursday 26th to Monday 30th October 2023. The festival, known as one of Ireland’s most popular cultural events, has announced an array of international jazz artists and a thrilling five-day program filled with music, parties, boat trips, and more.

At the program launch held at Cyprus Avenue Cork, Festival Director Mark Murphy confirmed the addition of big names like The Pharcyde, Mr. Scruff, and Vieux Farka Touré, along with various others. These artists will join already-announced headliners such as Macy Gray, Corinne Bailey Rae, Morcheeba, and Matthew Halsall.

The weekend promises an eclectic mix of performances. Highlights include:

• Thurs: Hailu Mergia at St Lukes
• Fri-Sun: Jazz Boat Journey with Jerron Paxton
• Sat: Soft Boy Records presents Yenkee, Kean Kavanagh, Five to Two at The Everyman
• Sun: The Scratch at Cork Opera House

Ticket sales begin on Friday, 25th August at 10:00am on www.guinnesscorkjazz.com, and many shows are already close to being sold out.

Celebrating its 45th year, the world-renowned festival is set to host over 1000 musicians with more ticketed shows than ever before. The extended music trail will run in 73 venues across Cork City, Douglas, and Kinsale, adding to the festive vibe.

Last year’s festival attracted over 100,000 visitors and smashed all previous records. The 2023 edition aims to build on this success, offering a larger line-up and additional date.

The Cork Jazz Boat will also return to Cork Harbour Cruises after last year’s resounding success, offering five unique jazz tours along the harbour.

Kevin Herlihy, President of the Cork Business Association, praised the festival, stating:

“The Guinness Cork Jazz festival gives a huge economic boost to Cork City… It’s a celebration of Cork’s culture, hospitality, and our renowned culinary scene.”

With everything from pop-up events to late-night parties and marching brass bands through the streets, this year’s Guinness Cork Jazz Festival seems poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for music lovers and festival-goers alike.

For more information on tickets and the full program, visit www.guinnesscorkjazz.com. The festival is supported by Diageo, Fáilte Ireland, Cork City Council, and Cork Airport.