YJF: Alligator Gumbo, Arts Barge, 01/10/26

York, meet York Jazz Fest. A new city-wide festival celebrating jazz in all its forms. From intimate bars to iconic venues, from timeless standards to forward-thinking sounds, York Jazz Fest brings together the full spectrum of jazz for four days of live music, discovery and community. Whether you've loved jazz for decades or have never listened before, you're invited. 1-4 October 2026. Tonight: Alligator Gumbo. A seven-piece playing jazz from the hey-day of the New Orleans swing era - in particular the roaring 20s, when music was raw and largely improvised, melodies and solos happening all at once. Over ten years together and firm favourites on the British jazz scene, with a good-natured mix of foot-stomping rhythms, toe-tapping tunes and raucous singalongs.