The 60th Port of Tauranga National Jazz Festival is back this April – bringing jazz back outdoors!

Festival-goers can enjoy listening to jazz swirl from talented artists through the crowds and into the heavens at three main alfresco venues across the city this Easter.

The TECT Jazz Village turns Tauranga's Historic Village into our very own French Quarter from 11am-5.30pm Easter Friday, April 7.

In true New Orleans-style, join the revelry, dance to dixie and swing, relax on the lawn and be entertained by a chocolate box of jazz flavours including The Madeleines, Miho's Jazz Orchestra, Retro Groove, Big Tasty, and Richter City Rebels.

'There will be something for everyone,” says organiser Marc Anderson. General admission is $25, with free entry for Under-14s.

'Little Big Markets will be there, enjoy food and refreshments – make a day of it!”

Then double-down this Easter Saturday, April 8, and Easter Sunday, April 9, as the city comes alive with jazz with two days of live music unfurling at the iconic Downtown Carnival from 12pm-6pm.

The jazz mecca will feature NZ's best on multiple stages located amidst fine bars and restaurants in The Strand, Wharf St and Red Square.

'Spend a relaxing day shopping, dining and enjoying the carnival vibe!”

Beach-goers can soak up the sound of Jazz at the Mount on Easter Monday, April 10 from 10am-5pm. This free event in Papa O Ngā Manu Porotakataka Park also has a Vintage Car Parade down Maunganui Rd at 11am followed by a Car Display at Coronation Park.

Marc says more than 20 bands will play at TECT Jazz Village, 40 acts will perform at Downtown Carnival and six at Jazz at the Mount! 'So more than 60 acts will play outdoors over the long Easter weekend!”

For details and tickets, see: www.jazz.org.nz