'Cork needs more weekends like this': Jazz Festival hailed as most successful yet

Behind increased footfall, the largest-ever number of ticketed events, and increased national and international interest, businesses in Cork are reporting a 12% increase in sales compared to 2023, making this year the most successful festival yet. 

Some of the weekend highlights included performances by two-time Grammy winner Gregory Porter, Guatemalan songwriter and guitarist Gaby Moreno, Buena Vista All-Stars, legendary rap ensemble De La Soul, Norwegian producer and DJ Todd Terje, as well as Malian musical duo Amadou & Mariam, and keyboardist and songwriting partner of Gil-Scott Heron, Brian Jackson.

“Cork is already a fantastic place," Porter, who has sold more than three million records worldwide, told the audience of his show, "add to that some wonderful jazz and I love the musical village that Guinness Cork Jazz Festival has created." 

Expressing a similar sentiment, three-time Grammy winner Moreno told the audience of her sold-out gig that playing the festival was "such a special moment". 

It’s an honour to be part of a celebration with so much history, where artists and audiences from all over come together through music.

And it appears that the success of this year's event was not just enjoyed by performers and festival goers, but also by the city's businesses.

“It’s been the busiest Guinness Cork Jazz Festival we’ve had! We’re up over 12% from last year," said Colm O’Connor from Costigans on Washington Street.

"Cork needs more weekends like this.” 

Speaking to the Irish Examiner on Monday, Chief Executive of Cork City Council Valerie O'Sullivan said hotels, restaurants, bars and local businesses had seen "an incredible surge in business over the weekend with visitors travelling from all over Ireland and the world, bringing a welcome economic boost to Cork". 

Ms O'Sullivan said not only does Cork Jazz showcase incredible music, it also "highlights the city’s hospitality, vibrant culture and night-time economy".

"On behalf of the city I’d like to express our heartfelt thanks to the organisers, all the volunteers and of course Guinness and Diageo for the wonderful work they do each year to create this flagship festival for Cork," she added. 

Echoing Ms O'Sullivan's remarks, Fiona Collins, Chair of the festival committee and Cork City’s new nighttime economy advisor said the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival brings "a palpable energy to the city with the stages and streets of Cork alive with music".

“We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support from attendees, local businesses, and our partners," she said.