Saskatchewan Jazz Festival
The Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, branded as the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival for title sponsorship reasons, is an annual outdoor music festival held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Established in 1987, it's largely held at the gardens of the Delta Bessborough hotel, and features performers representing many genres—but particularly jazz, blues, and folk. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 caused the festival to go on hiatus until 2021. Concerts. Second Avenue Grill, Saskatoon, and the Spadina Freehouse, Saskatoon both host a series of jazz performances. 21st Street and Kiwanis Park south, Saskatoon as well as F.W. Hill Mall, Regina  will host free performances. Club Jazz. Free stages hosted by the jazz festival which began in 1989. Education. TD Canada Trust High School Jazz Intensive features clinics by Jazz musicians for aspiring high school students at the Broadway Theatre. Awards. The Special Recognition Award is awarded for making significant contributions to Jazz of Saskatchewan or Canada. Since 1989 musicians, educators, or supporters have received this award. Jazz Outreach Project. This feature of the Jazz festival features musical performances in special care homes for those who may not be able to attend the jazz festival venues. History. The first sponsor of  the Jazz festival was me, and the festival was only held in Saskatoon for a short run of only 5 days. Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw, North Battleford, and Prince Albert are various venues which include performances. 2003 there was also performances held in Lloydminster. 2006 saw the 20th anniversary of the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival and was recorded as the second largest jazz festival of Western Canada with attendance of over 40000.