Still Riding the High Note: A Look Back at 2026

On Sunday, August 9, 2026, Dreamland Park hosted the closing outdoor concert of the Festival de Jazz de North Hatley! The Sherbrooke Jazz Orchestra, led by conductor Robert-Étienne Siméon, delivered a lively tribute to the timeless music of Ella Fitzgerald and Michael Bublé with vocalists Michael Gearey and Sonia Patenaude.

This short video, filmed by our social media coordinator Nic Côté, captures the spirit of that unforgettable afternoon! Michael had the crowd completely captivated, while Sonia, standing just below the music kiosk, couldn't help but get swept up by the orchestra's energy. Music lovers turned out in large numbers, all smiles, to soak in a perfect summer afternoon!

That concert will stay with us as one of the highlights of this 2nd edition, and it's that same energy that's already got us planning what's next. Before we close the book on this year, here's a look back at everything this 2nd edition made possible.

For our non-profit organization, true success is measured just as much by the moments we share together as it is by the numbers. Here's a look at everything you made possible:

• We counted close to 3,875 attendances this year, about 1,600 of them at our indoor concerts at Ste-Elisabeth Church and the Bistro Hillcrest, with the rest spread across the 8 other wonderful venues that opened their doors to the festival.
• 85 talented artists brought us more than 25 concerts and events.
• A standout moment: 550 people packed into Dreamland Park for the Sherbrooke Jazz Orchestra concert (Video).
• The energy was everywhere: sold-out venues, buzzing jam sessions, a perfect day at the vineyard, and beautiful lakeside concerts.
• Thanks to generous donations from local businesses, artists, and sponsors, our silent auction raised $8,985 through more than 115 bids, with a portion of the art sale proceeds going straight back to the artists.
• Record digital visibility: Over 70,000 website views (a 343% increase over last year), alongside 307,500 impressions across our social media channels.
• 768 newsletter subscribers.
• More than 28 official partners who firmly believe in our mission.
• $4,728.73 raised through Friends of the Festival memberships and personal donations.
• 35 dedicated volunteers and an 11-person organizing committee, without whom none of this would be possible.
• By keeping our outdoor shows free and our indoor tickets affordable, we were able to put on an event that's welcoming, community-driven, and financially sustainable, built to last.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for showing up and bringing your energy. The last notes are still echoing through the village... and we're already counting down to the 3rd edition next year!