Brought to you by The Imperial Hotel. 

Calling all jazz aficionados and weekend warriors.

The iconic Guinness Cork Jazz Weekend is upon us, and this year, you can ditch the FOMO and immerse yourself in the heart of the action at the Imperial Hotel.

This historic gem isn’t just perfectly located in the heart of Cork City (think: walking distance to all the main shopping, dining, and, yes, headline jazz venues like the Opera House), it’s also a full-blown jazz haven itself.

If you haven’t booked festival tickets, fear not  – the Imperial’s bar and restaurant are hosting a killer line-up of free performances throughout the October bank holiday weekend. Think big brass bands, local and national jazz legends, and late-night DJ sets to keep you swinging all night long.

Whether you’re a hotel guest or just popping in for a tipple, there’s something for everyone. Their swanky restaurant and timeless bar offer two distinct vibes, so you can choose your own adventure (and musical taste!).

Here’s what’s on: 

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25TH

The music strikes up in the restaurant from 1pm-3pm with the Emily Donoghue Duo performing, then Code of Behaviour from 4pm- 5.30pm, The Swing Cats from 6pm-8pm and The Off Beats from 8.30pm-10pm. Groovi takes it home from 11pm until late.

Meanwhile in the Bar firm favourites the Roaring Forties are live from 3pm-5pm, The Tomcats take up the beat from 6pm-8pm,before Ladies Who Lunch take to the stage from 9pm-11pm. A DJ set from 11.30pm -late will keep feet tapping until the small hours.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26TH

On Saturday October 26th things get lively earlier in the day with the Emily Donoghue Duo from 12pm-2pm in the restaurant, followed by The Off Beats from 3pm-5pm. The Songstress Quartet pop up from 5.30pm-8pm, there’s another chance to catch Code of Behaviour from 8.30pm-10 pm before Swing Bandits play 11pm-late.

Over in the Imperial’s atmospheric bar you’ll also catch The Roaring Forties from 3pm-5pm, The Tom Cats from 6pm-8pm and Ladies Who Lunch from 9pm-11pm before the DJ kicks in from 11.30pm-late

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27TH

Finally on Sunday, October 27th in the Restaurant you can catch Emily Donoghue Duo from 12pm-3pm, The Off Beats from 3pm-5pm, The Swing Cats from 6pm-8pm, Code of Behaviour from 9pm-10.30pm. Bobby Mac Band keeping things jazzy from 11pm-late.

Across the lobby in the bar you’ll have one final chance to catch performances from The Roaring Forties from 3pm-5pm, The Tomcats from 6pm-8pm and Ladies Who Lunch from 9pm-11pm before the musical celebration at The Imperial Hotel draws to a close with a DJ set from 11.30pm until late.

The Imperial Hotel, renowned for its luxury and heritage, is centrally located in Cork City, making it an ideal base for exploring the various jazz venues spread across the city. Prices for a two-night stay on the October Bank Holiday weekend for two people sharing including breakfast start from €295 per person. For more information or to make a booking email reservations@imperialhotelcork.ie or call 021 427404040.