Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival going ahead but Jazzin’ the Park ‘taking hiatus’ in 2024

Prestonians enjoying Jazzin’ the Park on Winckley Square in 2023

Jazzin’ the Park is ‘taking a hiatus’ in 2024.

Organisers confirmed the popular event – which usually takes place at Winckley Square as the finale of Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival – will not happen due to a lack of funding.

In a statement posted to Facebook, they said: “We are sorry to say that Jazzin’ the Park at Winckley Square will be taking a hiatus in 2024.

“Whilst a very successful bid went into the Arts Council, they have had such a demand for funds that they were unable to award the grant for Preston Jazz and Improvisation Festival this year.

“The Festival Director, Tony Rigg, has worked wonders in order to make sure the wider event goes ahead, but unfortunately, as Jazzin’ the Park is quite an expensive event to put on, we had to suspend this year’s event.”

Organisers are now looking to secure funding from sources other than the Arts Council.

“Though Jazzin’ the Park not going ahead this year is a bitter disappointment, it is also an opportunity for us to start planning early, and making sure it is self-reliant and not subject to a single source of funding. We are very keen to hear from potential sponsors and funders.

“The value of the event – bringing together so many different communities and ages, ensuring local artists share the stage with established national and international artists, encouraging young people to take up music and especially playing instruments, placing Preston on the map with visitors coming from other areas – has been wonderful to see. The feedback over the years has been tremendous.

“So yes, we are all disappointed, but we also very encouraged by all the events the festival has been able to go ahead with this year and also the prospect of becoming self-sustaining and growing Jazzin’ the Park and the wider festival for years to come.”

People reacted with disappointment at the news, with many offering words of encouragement for the future.

One said: “Very sad to hear this – this has been my favourite event of the year in such a brilliant location – best of luck with the planning which I’m sure will result in your return with a bang!”

Another commented: “Gutted Jazzin’ the Park isn’t taking place this year. It really has become the event of the year for many in Preston. Fingers crossed alternative sources of funding can be found for next year.”

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This story was made possible by support from you, our readers, and a host of organisations in the city, through our Crowdfund Lancashire appeal, which unlocked support from the Lancashire Culture and Sport Fund provided by Lancashire County Council. You can see all our coverage and, if you know of an arts project or event in the city we should be covering, send details to contactus@blogpreston.co.uk.