Eau Claire Jazz Festival Jazz Crawl Returns

Downtown transforms into a New York-style jazz scene for annual music celebration.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:00am

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A striking abstract composition of jagged black silhouettes and bold red geometric shapes, conceptually representing the energy and diversity of a jazz music festival.The annual Jazz Crawl transforms downtown Eau Claire into a vibrant celebration of jazz music in all its forms.Eau Claire Today

The 59th annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival will host its popular Jazz Crawl event, turning downtown Eau Claire into a vibrant, New York-inspired jazz scene with over 22 participating clubs and 50 music groups performing a wide range of jazz styles, from swing and bebop to funk and Latin.

Why it matters

The Jazz Crawl is a beloved annual tradition that draws jazz fans from across the region to experience the full spectrum of the art form in an immersive, walkable downtown setting. It serves as a major cultural event for the city of Eau Claire, showcasing its thriving music scene and solidifying its reputation as a hub for live performance.

The details

The Jazz Crawl will feature over 50 music groups performing across more than 22 downtown Eau Claire venues, allowing attendees to hop between clubs and experience a diverse array of jazz styles, from classic swing and bebop to modern funk, fusion, and Latin influences. Attendees can purchase an all-inclusive wristband to access all of the performances.

  • The 59th annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival will take place on April 17, 2026.
  • The Jazz Crawl event is the centerpiece of the festival, running throughout the evening on April 17th.

The players

Eau Claire Jazz Festival

An annual music festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin that celebrates jazz music in all its forms, with the Jazz Crawl as its marquee event.

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What they’re saying

“The Jazz Crawl is the highlight of the festival every year, transforming our downtown into a vibrant, New York-style jazz scene that you can't find anywhere else in the region.”

— Jillian Harding, Festival Director

What’s next

Tickets for the 59th Eau Claire Jazz Festival Jazz Crawl will go on sale to the general public on February 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The Eau Claire Jazz Festival's annual Jazz Crawl event is a beloved tradition that showcases the city's thriving music scene and solidifies its reputation as a hub for live jazz performance, drawing fans from across the region to experience the full spectrum of the art form in an immersive, walkable downtown setting.