Panama Jazz Festival 2026

The Panama Jazz Festival is an annual musical celebration held in Panama City. This year, the event will take place from January 15th to January 17th, marking the 23rd edition of the festival.

 It will honor the legendary Panamanian saxophonist Gladstone "Bat" Gordon. The organizers of the 2026 Panama Jazz Festival have announced that the event’s program continues to thrive, with the Gala Night sold out. This event, taking place at the Ateneo Theater, has become one of the festival’s most iconic occasions. 

The Gala Night will feature the “Legacy of Wayne Shorter” project, led by Danilo Pérez, John Patitucci, and Brian Blade, with a special guest appearance by Ravi Coltrane. 

The remaining schedule boasts international stars such as Terri Lyne Carrington, Tia Fuller, Nadia Washington, and Gregory Groover. The festival also shines a light on Panamanian artists like Idania Dowman and Juliette Roy. Here is the full calendar of events for Panama Jazz Fest. 

A Historic Closing with a Tribute to the Sonero Mayor

The 2026 Panama Jazz Festival will conclude with the traditional Family Outdoor Concert on Saturday, January 17. This free event, open to the public, will take place in the Central Quadrangle. The day will be dedicated to honoring the memory of Ismael Rivera, “El Sonero Mayor,” a pivotal figure in Afro-Caribbean music.

The tribute will feature the voice of his nephew, Moncho Rivera, who collaborated with the artist as a percussionist and continues to carry his legacy on international stages. This event aims to celebrate Rivera’s cultural impact within a spirit of community exchange.

Click here - For more information about the Panama Jazz Festival www.panamajazzfestival.com