International Jazz Day is 15years strong. Since 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially designated April 30 as International Jazz Day in order to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe. Each year on April 30, this international art form is recognized for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity; eradicating discrimination; fostering gender equality; and promoting freedom of expression. And April 30, 2026 is the 15th anniversary. With events taking place in over 190 countries and all 50 U.S. states, this year’s Global Host City is Chicago, Illinois, in the United States.