Dallas-Fort Worth, January 13, 2026
The JAMBALOO Festival is making a comeback in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, scheduled from February 7 to February 15. This year’s event promises nearly 30 free shows across 14 venues, featuring a diverse lineup that includes Tripping Daisy, Low Cut Connie, and Catie Adams. With several new initiatives such as the JAMBALOO Symposium and After Hours events, the festival aims to bolster the local music scene by supporting both established and emerging artists.
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
JAMBALOO Festival Returns to DFW with Expanded Lineup and New Events
The JAMBALOO Festival is set to return to the Dallas-Fort Worth area from February 7 to February 15, 2026, featuring nearly 30 free shows across 14 venues. This year’s expanded lineup includes performances by Tripping Daisy, Low Cut Connie, and Catie Adams, with additional acts to be announced in January. The festival aims to strengthen the local music scene by offering a platform for both established and emerging artists.
Expanded Programming and New Initiatives
Building on its inaugural success, JAMBALOO 2026 introduces several new elements:
- The JAMBALOO Symposium: Kicking off the festival on Saturday, February 7, at Tulips in Fort Worth, this event will feature discussions on current music trends, challenges facing independent venues, and strategies for strengthening the DFW music ecosystem. The evening will conclude with a special event featuring a detailed analysis of select Radiohead songs, followed by live performances from Paranoid Androids, an Austin-based Radiohead tribute band. The Symposium will be recorded and live-streamed.
- JAMBALOO After Hours: Debuting this year, these late-night events will focus on vinyl culture and DJ-driven performances, including three stacked nights at LadyLove Lounge, a Josey Records takeover featuring Mark Farina and his Mushroom Jazz Experience, and a Valentine’s Night appearance by Kenny Dope at Deep Ellum Art Co.
- Partnership with Amplified Minds: JAMBALOO has expanded its partnership with Amplified Minds, a North Texas nonprofit providing free mental health support to the creative community. The festival will feature a dedicated panel with musicians and mental health leaders, as well as year-round workshops and community programs supporting artists, gig workers, and local audiences.
- Student Showcase: On Sunday, February 15, JAMBALOO will conclude with BOOKER T. LIVE x JAMBALOO at the Granada Theater, a special collaboration with Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. The event will feature performances by current students and alumni, celebrating the next generation of artists alongside a legacy that includes notable figures.
How to Attend
RSVPs for JAMBALOO 2026 will open on January 14, 2026, at noon CST at JAMBALOO.live. A full schedule, lineup updates, and information on securing your spot will be released then.
About JAMBALOO
JAMBALOO began as a festival in 2025 and has since evolved into a year-round initiative supporting the North Texas music ecosystem. In 2025, JAMBALOO launched the $20,000 Venue Prize to support independent stages and introduced the $20,000 JAMBALOO Music Prize, now one of the largest local album awards in the country. Submissions for the 2026 Music Prize are open through January 4 at jambaloo.live/music-prize. Additional community programs will be announced throughout the year.
Key Features of JAMBALOO 2026
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | February 7–15, 2026 |
| Number of Shows | Nearly 30 free shows |
| Number of Venues | 14 venues across DFW |
| Confirmed Performers | Tripping Daisy, Low Cut Connie, Catie Adams, and more |
| New Initiatives | JAMBALOO Symposium, JAMBALOO After Hours, partnership with Amplified Minds, Student Showcase |
| RSVP Opening Date | January 14, 2026, at noon CST |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is JAMBALOO?
JAMBALOO is a festival that began in 2025 and has since evolved into a year-round initiative supporting the North Texas music ecosystem.
When is JAMBALOO 2026?
JAMBALOO 2026 will take place from February 7 to February 15, 2026.
How can I attend JAMBALOO 2026?
RSVPs for JAMBALOO 2026 will open on January 14, 2026, at noon CST at JAMBALOO.live. A full schedule, lineup updates, and information on securing your spot will be released then.
Who are some of the confirmed performers for JAMBALOO 2026?
Confirmed performers include Tripping Daisy, Low Cut Connie, and Catie Adams, with additional acts to be announced in January.
What new initiatives are being introduced in JAMBALOO 2026?
New initiatives include the JAMBALOO Symposium, JAMBALOO After Hours, a partnership with Amplified Minds, and a Student Showcase.
What is the JAMBALOO Music Prize?
The JAMBALOO Music Prize is a $20,000 cash award, paired with ongoing marketing and operational support, presented to one independent, locally-owned music venue in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex.
How can I submit my album for the JAMBALOO Music Prize?
Submissions for the 2026 Music Prize are open through January 4 at jambaloo.live/music-prize.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Musicians Can Win $20,000 in JAMBALOO Music Prize
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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