Experience the Tofino Jazz Festival 2025
There’s a special kind of energy in Tofino during the summer. The days feel a little longer, the ocean air a little sweeter, and from June 26 to 29, the whole town will be filled with music. That’s when the Tofino Jazz Festival takes over with four days of live performances, beachside sunsets, and unforgettable sounds.
This year, Whaler’s Guesthouse & Tofino Hostel is proud to be a sponsor of the festival. We love supporting the local arts community and we’re especially excited to welcome music lovers from all over to our little slice of the coast.
If you’re planning your trip and looking for the perfect accommodation in Tofino, now’s the time to book. The festival brings in visitors from across Vancouver Island and beyond, and rooms fill up quickly.
The lineup this year is truly something special. You’ll hear everything from traditional folk and brass bands to experimental funk, R&B, and Latin fusion. Performances happen all around Tofino, including at the Village Green, the First Street Dock, and local venues like the Maq Pub and Tofino Legion.
Opening night kicks off on Thursday, June 26 with Hasaatuk, a group from the Ahousaht Nation known for their powerful sound rooted in Nuu-chah-nulth culture. Later that evening, The Phigs will bring their high-energy funk to the Sunset Concert at First Street Dock, right in front of Savary Island Pie Company and just a stone’s throw from the hostel. Even better, The Phigs are staying with us here at Tofino Hostel. We’re stoked to be hosting such a talented band! You can wrap up the night with The Halibut Cowboys at Maq Pub, a wild mix of jazz, psychedelia, and surf vibes.
Friday gets even better. The Big Tim Brass Band leads a parade through town in the afternoon, and that energy keeps rolling all day with acts like Slacktide Stringband, Polky, and the incredible Frankie Hidalgo & The MVPs, whose Latin rhythms always get the crowd moving. If you still have energy after dark, Five Alarm Funk at the Legion will absolutely blow the roof off.
On Saturday, Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira bring fiddle and cello to life in a way that’s both traditional and completely fresh. ZADA’s alternative R&B sound comes in right after, followed by LowDown Brass Band from Chicago, who mix hip hop, reggae, and soul into their brassy beats. Bu Von Blume will close out the night with a wild mashup of funk, disco, and punk that will have everyone dancing until after midnight.
Sunday winds things down with a mix of local and visiting talent. Jovi Osborne, just 14 years old, takes the stage alongside other young and talented musicians like Kayley & Zach. The Vaudevillian brings back old-school ragtime blues, and TK the Artist mixes Afrosoul, gospel, jazz, and more. Downtown Mischief closes out the entire weekend at the Legion with a show that is part music, part performance art, and all-out fun.
There are no big fences or exclusive barriers here. Most shows are free, and the ones that require tickets are worth every penny. The whole town becomes part of the festival. People dance in the streets, strangers become friends, and the music is everywhere.
If you’re joining us for the festival, Whaler’s Guesthouse & Tofino Hostel is one of the best places to stay. We offer both dorm-style and private rooms, a shared kitchen, and cozy common areas where you can meet other travelers. Our location is ideal if you want to walk to most of the shows, grab a bite at a food truck, or wander down to the beach after the music winds down.
Whether you’re a seasoned hostel-goer or usually stay in hotels, you’ll find our space welcoming, comfortable, and affordable. If you’ve been searching for a relaxed and friendly Tofino hotel or a central Tofino hostel that puts you close to everything, this is it.
Rooms fill up fast during the festival, so don’t wait too long to make a reservation. You can find all the info and book online at tofinohostel.com.
Tofino is more than just a music destination. Between sets, you can go surfing, hike rainforest trails, relax on the beach, or grab a coffee at one of the many local spots in town. The festival brings a buzz to the community that makes everything feel just a little more alive.
Whether you’re here for the full four days or just catching a few shows, we hope you’ll make Whaler’s Guesthouse your home base. We can’t wait to see the town lit up with music and energy. And we’d love to be part of your Tofino story this summer.
Book your stay today at tofinohostel.com and we’ll see you at the festival.
