The countdown is on.

Cork’s most historic hotel is striking just the right note for the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival 2025, with a full weekend of free live entertainment guaranteed to keep the city swinging.

From Friday 24th to Sunday 26th October, the Imperial Hotel on South Mall will transform into a hub of music, energy, and atmosphere, offering festival-goers the chance to soak up world-class performances without spending a cent on tickets.

The Imperial has long been at the heart of Cork’s cultural life, and this October Bank Holiday it cements that reputation with a three-day programme of jazz, brass, and big-band brilliance across two vibrant venues — the elegant Helena’s and the newly renovated Fitzgerald’s Bar. Expect a lively mix of local talent, national acts, and ensemble performances designed to keep spirits high late into the night.

Abigail Cotter on saxophone. Photo: Darragh Kane

For festival visitors, the hotel’s location is unbeatable. Just steps away from headline venues like the Cork Opera House, the Everyman, and City Hall, as well as the English Market and Cork’s main shopping streets, it makes the perfect base for exploring both the city and the music.

“Fitzgerald’s Bar has been lovingly reimagined this year, with stylish interiors, a wrap around bar and top notch cocktails—so it’s a natural home for brass and swing.” said Lorraine Gavigan, General Manager of The Imperial Hotel.

“We’re thrilled to open the doors with a free programme that anyone can enjoy. The bar’s new layout is all on one level with a much larger and open space so we have fantastic capacity to host a great Jazz crowd.”

For more information or to make a booking email reservations@imperialhotelcork.ie call 021427404040.