News

Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2015

Jacksonville Jazz Fest, the nation’s second largest jazz festival, returns to Jacksonville this Memorial Day weekend, May 22-24th. The event brings internationally acclaimed jazz artists to four stages throughout the heart of Downtown Jacksonville. The festival showcases local talent as well.

This year's lineup includes Kelly-Scott Quintet, Mama Blue, Spyro Gyra, Maceo Parker, Larry Wilson & Truth Serum, Michael Franks, Lisa McClendon, John Lumpkin Trio and many more. Get the full lineup here
Admission to the festival is free, although VIP packages and preferred seating tickets are available!

The festival hours are:

Friday, May 23: 5:00 pm - 10 pm
Saturday, May 24: 1:00 pm – 10:00 pm 
Sunday, May 25: 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm

The festival kicks off Thursday night at the Florida Theatre with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition. This 30+ year tradition selects five finalists through a blind judging process. These finalists are given the chance to perform on the Main Stage during the Festival. The winner also receives a cash prize. You can buy tickets to the competition here!

Over the next three days Downtown comes alive with the sounds of rhythm and blues. Art in the Heart of Downtown allows patrons to browse both local and national artist booths throughout Downtown while enjoying the festival.

Friday night Jacksonville welcomes back Fantasia for the Off Jazz Concert. Doors open at 6 p.m. at the Florida Theatre. Tickets are $38.50 plus tax and can be purchased here!

Jazz After Dark keeps the music going after the festival each evening. Immediately following the last act each night, participating bars and clubs in Downtown showcase more live music with no cover charge from 10 p.m. – 2 a.m. Participating locations include:

Burrito Gallery

1904 Music Hall

Burro Bar

Dive bar

Downtown Cigar Lounge

Underbelly

Volstead

Grape & Grain Exchange

Check back to our site throughout the month for a complete line-up, updates, and more!