The Big Band Ball

Join us at the stunning Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna O Waiwhetū on Sunday 25 October 2026, from 7.30pm–10.30pm, for a night of dancing, dazzling performances and unforgettable festival magic. Dust off your dancing shoes and celebrate 20 years of big band in style!

Featuring three incredible bands – the vibrant Whanganui Jazz Orchestra led by Riwai Hina, the Festival All Star Big Band assembled by the incomparable Lana Law, and, of course, Butch Green's Sideline Swing – this is one event you won't want to miss.

With delicious food available from The Chippy and Posh Puds on the forecourt and the Jazz Festival Bar (with the support of Main Divide and Garage Project!) on hand to keep the celebrations flowing, all you need to bring is your dancing shoes and your love of great music.

Join us for an unforgettable night of swing, celebration and big band brilliance as we celebrate 20 years of the Christchurch Big Band Jazz Festival!

Sign up to the Festival newsletter and follow us on social media to keep up with all the Festival action, including free events and ticketed shows. The Christchurch Big Band Jazz Festival is a charitable, community-run festival, and donations from music lovers help us keep the majority of our performances free for everyone to enjoy. If you love live music and would like to help keep the jazz playing, please consider making a donation. 

7pm Doors open

7.30pm Whanganui Jazz Orchestra

8.45pm The All Star Festival Band

9.30pm Sideline Swing

10.30pm Event finishes