Cork’s favourite annual shindig is back for 2021.

Organisers have confirmed that the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival will go ahead over the bank holiday weekend from October 22nd – 25th this year, making it the first major Irish festival to get the green light since the pandemic began.

The festival, one of the biggest and longest-running events on the Irish music calendar, was cancelled in 2020 in line with Government guidelines.

“This will be the first major festival in Ireland since the pandemic to take place, which is a significant milestone not only for musicians and the events industry who have been one of hardest-hit industries but also for festival-goers who have been waiting for some good news.” said Rory Sheridan, Head of Partnerships, Diageo Ireland.

Also speaking today, Fiona Collins, Chairperson of the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, said: “We are delighted to bring the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival back to the City this year – we’re working through the programming and are excited to bring much loved performances, as well as emerging local talent, to the streets and venues of Cork this bank holiday weekend.”

Cllr. Colm Kelleher, Lord Mayor of Cork, added: “On behalf of the people of Cork, the local business owners, hoteliers, bar and restaurants owners, as well as all of the musicians who will be involved again this year in The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, we are absolutely thrilled to welcome back the Festival.

“The hugely significant economic impact, as well as the vibrancy and energy it brings to Cork city and the surrounding area, is unparalleled – there is nothing else like it. This is the great news that we all wanted to hear!”

Full details will be released over the coming weeks.