White Rock Jazz & Blues Festival Returns With Roaring '20s Vibes

The White Rock Jazz and Blues Festival is coming back to the seaside city, and this year's lineup has serious throwback energy. Running June 3-7, the festival blends free outdoor performances—the backbone of what makes this event accessible—with ticketed intimate shows and gala events that'll let you lean into the music without the summer sun melting you into the pavement.

The headliners are worth the trip alone. Alex Browne and His Boulevardiers are bringing the sounds of the Roaring '20s and Flirty '30s, all dapper suits and genuine vintage arrangements. These aren't covers trying too hard to be retro; this is people who actually understand the era's musicality. June 5 at Blue Frog Studios (1328 Johnston Rd.) is the night for that particular vibe.

June 6 shifts tone with Boney Fields, a Chicago-born trumpet powerhouse who'll bring something more contemporary but equally captivating. The contrast between the two galas shows why this festival works—it's not locked into a single sound. Jazz and blues sit near each other but don't have to sound identical, and the White Rock programming respects that.

The free outdoor performances scattered across the city's waterfront throughout the week mean you can dip in and out without committing to tickets. Bring a blanket, grab some local fish and chips, and let the music fill the space between the water and the pier. It's the kind of event that works for everyone—the serious jazz heads will appreciate the musicianship, while casual listeners just want to sit by the ocean and hear something live. White Rock's got you covered either way.