Ireland's biggest jazz celebration is back, and we couldn't be more excited. The City of Derry Jazz Festival 2026 is returning to light up the Walled City with an incredible long-weekend of live music. But we know that planning a festival weekend can sometimes feel a bit stressful. There's tickets to sort, itineraries to plan and the small matter of figuring out how to get there.
That's where we come in. We handle the travel logistics so you can focus entirely on the music. This year is particularly special, marking the 25th-anniversary celebration of the festival, making it an absolute must-attend event for jazz lovers everywhere.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Derry Jazz Festival 2026. From dates and locations to what else to see in the city, plus the most affordable, hassle-free way to get there.
The Basics: When and Where?
When is Derry Jazz Festival 2026?
The festival runs from Wednesday 29th April to Monday 4th May, perfectly timed to make the most of the May Bank Holiday weekend.
Where is Derry Jazz Festival?
The short answer is: everywhere! The festival takes over the entire city of Derry/L'Derry. You'll find performances happening in local pubs, theatres, streets and iconic Jazz Hubs like Bennigans, The Playhouse and The Guildhall.
What to Expect at the 25th Anniversary
The atmosphere during the Derry Jazz Festival 2026 is set to be electric. A vibrant, undeniable energy fills the streets of Derry/L'Derry as the whole city comes alive with the sounds of jazz, blues, swing and soul.
It's a massive event with over 100,000 music fans expected to attend this year's milestone 25th anniversary celebration.
Expect world-class performers rubbing shoulders with fantastic local acts. While you'll need to pay to see some of the headliners like Curtis Stigers or Muireann Bradley, other shows such as the Masterclasses held at Bennigans Bar on John Street are completely free. With over 200 performers across more than 60 venues, it promises to be an unforgettable weekend of live music, dancing and great craic.
With something for absolutely everyone, tickets are going fast. Make sure to reserve yours online in advance (that goes for your Aircoach tickets too!).
Exploring Derry/L'Derry Beyond the Music
While the Jazz Festival in Derry is the main event, the city itself has plenty to offer between gigs. We highly recommend making the most of your trip by taking in some of the local sights.
First up, the Walled City. Derry/L'Derry is home to the last intact city walls in Ireland. These famous 400-year-old walls are just a short, 5-minute walk from where the coach drops you off. It's a fantastic way to stretch your legs and soak up the history.
Another must-do is a stroll across the iconic Peace Bridge over the River Foyle. It offers stunning views of the city and is the perfect place to grab a bit of fresh air before the evening's entertainment begins.
Getting There: Your Hassle-Free Journey
Getting to the city of Derry Jazz Festival 2026 doesn't have to be a headache. The Aircoach 705X express service is the most convenient way to travel, connecting Dublin City Centre, Dublin Airport and Belfast Grand Central Station directly to Derry/L’Derry.
We offer 22 daily express services each way, including late night and early morning stops. This means you have the ultimate flexibility to plan your Derry Jazz Festival weekend exactly how you want it, without worrying about rigid timetables.
Our route makes picking the coach easy, with stops at:
- Dublin City Centre (O’Connell Street)
- Dublin Airport (Terminal 1 - Zone 2 & Terminal 2 - Zone 20)
- Belfast Grand Central Station
- Belfast International Airport
- Maghera Park & Ride
- Derry/L'Derry - Drumahoe Park and Ride
- Derry/L'Derry - Foyleside Coach Park (dropping you right in the heart of the action)
Travel in Comfort (and Save Money)
Your festival weekend should start the moment you leave home. Travelling with Aircoach means you can travel in comfort. Our coaches feature reclining seats, free WiFi, on-board toilets and charging points for your devices. No detours, no drama, just a relaxing journey where you can sit back and listen to your favourite jazz playlist.
It's also ridiculously cost-effective, with tickets starting from just £19/€20 making us much cheaper than the train, and you won't have to worry about onward connections. Plus, there are no hefty parking charges, no toll fees and no navigating unfamiliar city traffic.
Exclusive Discount: To make your trip even more affordable, we have a special Jazz Festival offer. The first 50 tickets booked between Monday 20th April and Sunday 26th April will receive a 10% discount on 705X route to Derry/L'Derry. Just enter DERRYJAZZ10 at checkout. This offer is valid for travel on Thursday 30th April only, so be quick!
Get on the Road to Derry Jazz Festival
The 25th anniversary of the City of Derry Jazz Festival 2026 is shaping up to be an unmissable event filled with incredible music and memories.
Remember, we're just the bit in the middle. We'll get you there comfortably and safely, so you can focus entirely on the fun awaiting you in the Walled City.
Download the official festival programme to start planning your gigs, and book your Aircoach tickets online today using our exclusive discount code. See you on board!