Ottawa Jazzfest 2026 Day 3 FT. Jeff Goldblum
Jazzfest 2026 Day 3 Ft. Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra
After two days of rain and unpredictable skies, Day 3 of the 46th annual Ottawa Jazz Festival arrived with a welcome change of pace. Festivalgoers filled Confederation Park early, creating one of the busiest evenings of the festival so far. From jazz to soulful grooves and a headline performance unlike any other, Saturday night showcased the wide range of experiences that make Ottawa Jazz Festival a summer staple.
Peter Hum Sextet
Opening the evening was Ottawa jazz veteran Peter Hum and his all-star sextet. Bringing together musicians from across Canada, the group delivered a smooth and engaging set that served as the perfect soundtrack to the festival grounds as crowds steadily grew throughout the evening. With a relaxed atmosphere throughout Confederation Park, the performance provided a fitting start to Day 3.
Jermaine Holmes
Taking the stage next was Jermaine Holmes, whose blend of neo-soul, jazz, funk, and hip-hop drew festivalgoers away from the main stage and toward the Elgin Street Stage. Backed by a talented band, Holmes delivered a soulful performance highlighted by a touching tribute to a recently departed collaborator. His smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery created one of the evening’s most intimate moments.
Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra
By the time Jeff Goldblum took the stage, Confederation Park was packed. Anticipation had been building all evening for the actor, musician, and entertainer, and Goldblum immediately proved why he remains such a captivating presence.
Before being joined on stage by the orchestra, Goldblum made sure to engage with the crowd. Equal parts host, comedian, and performer, he had the audience hanging on every word before eventually being joined by The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra to the stage.
Celebrating the recent release of the orchestra’s latest album, the performance blended classic jazz, sharp musicianship, and Goldblum’s unmistakable charm. Throughout the evening, laughter flowed as freely as the music, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a gathering among friends than a traditional concert.
As the orchestra played on, the crowd remained fully engaged, embracing both the music and the personality that has made Goldblum a beloved figure for decades. Then, almost on cue, rain began to fall near the end of the set. Rather than dampening the mood, it felt like a fitting final chapter to an evening that had delivered warmth, humour, and unforgettable music from beginning to end.
Closing
From Peter Hum’s hometown jazz showcase to Jermaine Holmes’ soulful tribute and Jeff Goldblum’s uniquely entertaining headlining performance, Day 3 offered one of the festival’s most memorable evenings yet. Under clear skies that eventually gave way to slight rain, Ottawa Jazz Festival continued to prove that great music is only part of what brings people together.
