Eau Claire Jazz Festival brings jazz events to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, through Eau Claire Jazz, Inc. The festival has run since 1967 and is described as the largest student-run festival in the United States. University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire students handle festival duties under a community board. A concert series includes evening performances by UW-Eau Claire Jazz I and guest artists.
Jazz Crawl turns downtown into a multi-venue night with both all-ages and 21+ rooms. The crawl lists styles like ragtime, blues, acoustic, and big band. Eau Claire Jazz Master Classes offer presentations, performance, and Q&A for visiting students and educators. Student Sessions include adjudication for every band, plus honor band designations for eligible groups. Registered schools can apply for an instrument giveaway tied to an education award.
2026 marks the 62nd annual Eau Claire Jazz Festival!
Festival Intel:
- Jazz Crawl entry uses a wristband.
- Jazz Crawl venues include both all-ages and 21+ options.
- Jazz Crawl proceeds support Eau Claire Jazz Festival educational programs.
- Volunteering at Jazz Crawl includes a free wristband to the rest of the event.