If your idea of Christmas music involves trumpets, saxophones and a swinging rhythm section, mark Saturday, 5 December 2026 in the diary. Have Yourself a Jazzy Little Christmas brings the Big Band of Penang, led by Sandra Elliot, to the auditorium at Bangunan UAB on Gat Lebuh China, joined by members of Ipoh's Kinta Valley Big Band.
Expect a programme of festive favourites given the big-band treatment – the sort of toe-tapping arrangements you would hear on a classic Christmas jazz album – plus a special guest appearance by vocalist Mable Ooi. The concert runs about 90 minutes without an interval and is presented by Pertubuhan Seni Muzik Jazz Pulau Pinang.
At RM60 a ticket it is an easy, good-value way to kick off the festive season, and it works well for couples, families with older children (recommended for ages 10 and up) and anyone who misses the days of the Penang Island Jazz Festival. Doors open just 15 minutes before the 8pm start, so do not cut it too fine.
Bangunan UAB is on the waterfront edge of the heritage zone, close to Lebuh Pantai, Beach Street and the Weld Quay clan jetties. Have dinner in Little India or along Beach Street first, then walk over. Parking in the heritage core is limited on Saturday nights; Lebuh Pantai and the Prangin/Komtar car parks are the usual fallbacks, or take an e-hailing ride.
Highlights
- Big Band of Penang led by Sandra Elliot
- Guest players from the Kinta Valley Big Band
- Special appearance by vocalist Mable Ooi
How to get there
Bangunan UAB, Gat Lebuh China, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang. Open in Google Maps or open in Waze.
More concerts in Penang · What's on in George Town · Penang festive events from Deepavali to Chinese New Year
Information from CloudJoi show page, CloudJoi venue page – Bangunan UAB. Last verified .
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