Beachside jazz, all weekend long: JazzConnect brings 17 performances to 10 iconic Scarborough venues

Marcio Mendes at JazzConnect 2024

Now an unmissable highlight in Perth’s annual winter calendar, JazzConnect brings three days of live music and atmosphere to Scarborough from 29 to 31 August 2025, transforming 10 iconic venues into a weekend-long celebration of jazz.

Proudly presented by the City of Stirling, the festival is produced by ArtConnect Initiative and supported by the Scarborough Beach Association. With 17 events – ranging from free community performances to ticketed shows – JazzConnect invites audiences to experience Scarborough in a whole new way.

Curated by Kristian Borring, a Perth-based Danish jazz guitarist, the program brings together established legends and exciting new voices in a celebration of jazz in all its forms – from sultry ballads to jazz standards, swing, Latin jazz, soul and beyond. The 2025 event also sees a new partnership with the Perth Jazz Society.

“This weekend isn’t just about jazz – it’s about community,” said Festival Director Karen Caddy. “It’s a chance for people to rug up, head out, and enjoy Scarborough during winter in a way that’s warm, vibrant and welcoming. Whether you’re a jazz devotee or just want to hear great live music with a view, you’ll find a rich mix of performances and artists to discover.”

Returning to Scarborough after last year's festival drew an estimated 1,500 attendees, JazzConnect continues to grow as a uniquely local offering that invites audiences to walk from venue to venue, enjoying great local artists and spectacular ocean views along the way.

New and returning acts include Sophie Foster, Steve Hensby Band, De Cuba Son, and The Basilios, alongside community events such as the Matt Cahill Swing Dance Party.

City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin said JazzConnect reflects the City’s vision to foster connected, creative communities.

“JazzConnect is a brilliant way to enjoy our Scarborough venues in a new light,” said Mayor Irwin.

“This event brings people together to experience outstanding local music in some of Perth’s most scenic and vibrant spaces. We’re proud to support an initiative that energises the community and celebrates creativity across the foreshore.”

The 2025 program includes multiple events at the Stirling Leisure – Scarborough Beach Community Centre, presented in collaboration with the Perth Jazz Society. These include Jazz through the Ages with Libby Hammer – an engaging narrated performance tracing the evolution of the genre, and Jazz with Junior – a gentle, family-friendly morning concert featuring Jessica Carlton and Holli Scott Trio – perfect for parents and kids to experience live music together in a relaxed, inclusive setting.

Elsewhere, enjoy swingin’ jazz standards at ZOIE Café, jazz-funk outside the Livid Skate Café, smooth crooners at The Lookout, sunset samba at Scarborough Beach Bar, and a sophisticated jazz trio in the Rendezvous Hotel Lobby Bar with Winter Staycation packages available.

The full program is now live at jazzconnect.com.au