2026 Taipei Very Live! Festival Unveils Lineup with 27 Venues and 78 Performances

Taipei is set to come alive with music as the "2026 Very Live!" festival, part of the "2026 Trendy Taipei" series, kicks off from August 1 to September 6. The event will connect 27 music venues across the city, presenting a vibrant lineup of 78 performances spanning jazz, pop, rock, electronic, folk, and world music.

The festival aims to encourage audiences to explore Taipei's live music scene and experience the unique charm of each venue. This year's lineup features a mix of international bands, Golden Melody Award winners, hip-hop artists, and prominent Taiwanese jazz musicians, ensuring a diverse musical journey for both seasoned fans and newcomers to live houses.

Taipei's Department of Cultural Affairs highlighted that the recommended performances showcase the distinct musical styles and cultural heritage of various venues. Blackbird Coffee will host a jazz trio led by "Taiwan's Drum King," Huang Rui-feng, on August 13. EZ5 Music Restaurant and China Pa Dining & Live Music will present international jazz cultures, with EZ5 featuring a Latin music team on August 14 and China Pa offering a jazz performance with swing dance on August 19.

Jazz enthusiasts can look forward to two major performances at Sappho Live Jazz. On August 22, Brandon Lin & TruthSeeker will collaborate with saxophonist Eric Nakanishi for a contemporary jazz set. On August 27, the Chang Chang-chieh Quintet will showcase the mature and nuanced energy of Taiwanese jazz.

Beyond jazz, the festival includes a 21-piece big band performance blending jazz and pop at Rhythmscape on August 27. Plutato Live Session, a recipient of Golden Melody and Golden Indie Awards, will present the diverse facets of new-generation jazz at Eslite Bookstore. International collaborations are also a highlight, with Japanese band Wisteria and Hong Kong band Goodnight Lily performing together at MOONDOG on August 21. PIPE Live Music will host the Canadian band The Neverminds on September 4, marking the first stop of their Asian tour.

Pop music fans can enjoy "80's Rock & Soul" at SMEXY Music Restaurant on August 21, featuring K-pop and dance performances. The festival also includes outdoor and folk music events, with free live band performances at Gongguan Waterfront Plaza on August 7 and September 4. A "Mountain Sea Electronic Music Party" blending electronic music and indigenous culture will take place at MAJI Square on September 5. The series will conclude on September 6 with "Folk Song Reimagined" at My Home Music Venue, offering new arrangements of classic Taiwanese folk songs.