The much-anticipated Jumpers and Jazz in July festival is just around the corner, and the organising committee has been hard at work over the past year to make the 10-day event bigger and better than ever.
After listening to feedback from 2023, several new features and improvements have been introduced to enhance the festival experience.
Saturday Down Town Jazz Stage: On Saturday 20 July, a new precinct will be created between Town Hall and the Art Gallery. In previous years, the stage was set up in front of the town hall without closing the street, which limited space for spectators. This year, a vibrant zone will be established at the rear of the town hall, complete with artificial grass, funky furniture, umbrellas, food and coffee vendors, and a full-stage program from 10.30am to 4pm. Festival-goers can relax, dance, or enjoy the jazzy street vibe in this welcoming area.
Extended Live Music Venues: To keep the jazz alive after the main stages close, the festival has partnered with Psycho Suzies and Criterion Hotel. This responds to feedback requesting more jazz for longer periods.
Musicians’ Jam Session: Responding to requests for interactive musical opportunities, this year will feature The Colonel’s Blues and Brews Jam. Musicians of all skill levels can bring their instruments and jam with a professional band.
Saturday Stroll & Swing Relocated to Leslie Park: The popular Stroll & Swing event on the second weekend will take place in Leslie Park instead of closing the street. This move centralises the activities, offering comfort and convenience. The event will now be ticketed at $15 for adults, with free entry for children, ensuring affordability for families. The Suitcase Rummage will remain in the free zone on the eastern side of the park.
Revamped Jazzy Kids Zone: Sponsored by Toowoomba Orthodontists, the expanded Jazzy Kids zone will feature “Folly Games,“ a physical theatre troupe that creates interactive, fantastical experiences for children.
Increased Event Hosts and Experiences: This year, 53 event hosts are offering more than 160 event experiences, up from 43 hosts in 2023. New events like the Dachshund Walk in the Park, Groovy Grannies breakfast, and the return of Marco Gliori, Bush Poet, will provide a wide range of activities. Events will span across the region, including Allora, Glengallan, Goomburra, Freestone, Mt Colliery, Tannymorel, Killarney, and Severnlea.
Mid-Week Itineraries: Introducing a range of local midweek tours (self-drive or guided), festival visitors can explore the scenic Goomburra Valley, historical and heritage sites, and Granite Belt wineries. Details will be available in the 2024 program and on the festival’s website.
Wearable Art Exhibition: While the Wearable Art Exhibition is not new, this year will feature exciting contributions from Assumption College and Warwick Christian College, showcased in the Kings Building at Club Warwick RSL.
World’s Largest Jazzercise Class Challenge: Aiming to break the current world record, people of all abilities are invited to join. The largest participating group will receive $500 in cash, courtesy of Warwick Criterion Hotel, which supports local non-profit organisations.
