From Wednesday 28 May to Sunday 1 June 2025, the Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival returns with five days of live music, local food, and community spirit.
With over 100 performances across beachfront parks, bars, and local venues, it’s one of the most vibrant and accessible cultural events in southern Sydney.
Whether you’re local or visiting, this free Sydney music festival offers the perfect blend of jazz, blues, soul, and seaside charm.
What to Know About the Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival 2025
Launched in 2021, this event has quickly earned its place as one of the top jazz festivals in Sydney.
Set in the heart of the Sutherland Shire, the festival spans outdoor spaces and indoor venues across Cronulla, featuring Australian legends, emerging artists, and international acts.
Most events are free to attend, and the atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and designed to celebrate the local community as much as the music itself.
Top Highlights of the 2025 Cronulla Jazz Festival
The 2025 edition brings a strong and diverse lineup.
With headline artists, film screenings, and over 20 participating venues, the festival is packed with reasons to attend.
Here’s what not to miss:
Premium Ticketed Shows at Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival
While most events are free, some top acts are performing ticketed sets at The Brass Monkey, a beloved local venue. Highlights include:
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The 2025 Blues Awards (Wednesday 28 May)
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Nathan Cavaleri
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Ray Beadle
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Vince Jones
These premium shows offer a more intimate setting and are expected to sell out.
Jazz Film Screenings at Hoyts Cronulla – What’s Showing in 2025
In partnership with Hoyts Cronulla, the festival includes a Jazz & Blues Film Festival running nightly from 28 May to 1 June.
With $8 tickets, expect a mix of music documentaries, classic concert films, and inspiring artist stories.
Free Live Music in Cronulla: Venues & Line-Up Highlights
Over 20 venues are hosting free performances across the five days. Key locations include:
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Dunningham Park and Cronulla Park for outdoor main stages
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Northies, Zinc Bar, and Cronulla RSL for nightly live gigs
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Yalla Sawa, Bobby’s, Bianchini’s, and Rydges for relaxed music and dining
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Extended venues in Caringbah, Kurnell, and Woolooware
Performers include Chase the Sun, The Mighty Reapers, Clayton Doley, Pete Cornelius, and many more.
Cronulla Record Fair 2025 – Vinyl, Collectables & Live DJs
On Saturday 31 May, Gunnamatta Park hosts the Record Fair. With a $2 entry fee, music lovers can explore vinyl, CDs, memorabilia, and enjoy live DJ sets from local crate-diggers.
Local Talent & Emerging Artists at the Cronulla Jazz Festival
Throughout the weekend, community bands, music schools, and student ensembles perform live at the Mall Amphitheatre. This gives the next generation of musicians a platform and adds a strong local flavour to the festival atmosphere.
Cronulla Festival Map: Main Stages and Venue Guide
Cronulla’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate on foot. Most stages and venues are within 5–10 minutes’ walk from Cronulla Station.
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Dunningham Park – great for family-friendly day sets
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Cronulla Park – home to headline acts and opening ceremony
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Northies & Zinc Bar – evening crowds and high-energy performances
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The Brass Monkey – ticketed headline gigs
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Satellite venues – spread the music beyond the beach into nearby suburbs
Who Will Love the Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival?
This festival has broad appeal:
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Music lovers – access to blues, soul, funk, and jazz legends
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Locals and new residents – discover Cronulla’s lively community vibe
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Day trippers and couples – great atmosphere, easy access, and scenic dining
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Groups and friends – casual hangouts with food, drinks, and late-night sets
With free entry to most performances, it’s one of the best-value events in Sydney’s cultural calendar.
Where to Eat, Drink & Unwind During the Festival in Cronulla
Cronulla’s food and bar scene enhances the experience. Many venues are festival partners, so you can catch a live set while dining or having a drink.
Top picks:
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Blackwood Pantry – modern café fare
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Albi’s Taverna – Italian by the sea
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Zinc Bar – cocktails and live jazz
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Northies – large venue with multiple stages
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Next Door Cronulla, Bianchini’s, and Yalla Sawa – casual eats with atmosphere
How to Get to the Cronulla Jazz Festival – Transport & Parking Tips
Getting to Cronulla is easy:
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By train: Take the T4 Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line to Cronulla Station, which is close to all venues
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By car: Street and paid parking is available, but limited—use public transport if possible
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By bike or walking: The area is flat and bike-friendly
Local Tips for Making the Most of the Cronulla Jazz Festival
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Arrive early for main stage performances
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Bring a picnic blanket or folding chair
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Pack sunscreen and a light jacket – weather can change quickly
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Check the schedule in advance to prioritise top acts
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Explore different venues for varied atmospheres and sounds
Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival Schedule: Day-by-Day Breakdown
Here’s how the festival unfolds:
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Wednesday 28 May – Opening night & Blues Awards
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Thursday 29 May – Live music across bars and lounges
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Friday 30 May – Full program across major venues
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Saturday 31 May – Record Fair, park concerts, and tributes
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Sunday 1 June – Closing day performances and final sets
Don’t Miss Cronulla’s Premier Music Event in 2025
The Cronulla Jazz and Blues Festival 2025 delivers an unbeatable combination of free live music, seaside atmosphere, and local energy.
With performances spread across five days and multiple venues, it’s one of the best cultural events in southern Sydney.
Whether you’re a jazz fan, a newcomer to Sydney, or simply looking for a vibrant weekend plan, Cronulla’s signature music festival is a must-attend.
Explore more and view the full program at:
www.cronullajazzandbluesfestival.com
