Jazz Festivals USA 2025: A Nation Swinging to Its Own Rhythm
Attempting to map out the hundreds of jazz festivals set to take place across the United States this summer is no easy task. From coast to coast, cities large and small, cultural institutions and grassroots collectives alike will be offering a dazzling array of events under the broad banner of jazz. So rather than trying to cover them all, here’s a curated selection of some of the most anticipated festivals on the calendar.
We begin, naturally, in the cradle of jazz: The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, running this year from April 24 to May 4. As ever, it’s more than a celebration of jazz—it’s a kaleidoscope of American music. This year’s headliners include Dave Matthews Band, John Fogerty, Pearl Jam, and Lenny Kravitz. On the jazz side, the lineup shines with names like Branford Marsalis, Kamasi Washington, Trombone Shorty, and Harry Connick Jr. It’s a sonic feast in the heart of Louisiana.
More info and tickets: nojazzfest.com
For lovers of smooth jazz, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Florida is a can’t-miss party. Expect good vibes and grooves from artists such as Vincent Ingala, Brian Culbertson, and Norman Brown—this one promises to keep spirits high and feet moving.
Details and reservations: seabreezejazzfestival.com
Also in Florida, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival brings an eclectic mix of talent, from pianist Connie Han and Trombone Shorty to Branford Marsalis and Boney James. This festival continues to celebrate jazz in all its vibrant diversity.
More info: jacksonvillejazzfest.com
In Georgia, the Atlanta Jazz Festival is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, and this year’s lineup includes the powerful Andromeda Turre, Ravi Coltrane, Dianne Reeves, and the legendary Charles McPherson.
Full program and info: atljazzfest.com
On the West Coast, the Newport Beach Jazz Festival (May 30 – June 1) offers an elegant blend of soul and jazz with appearances by Anthony Hamilton, Chante Moore, Gerald Albright, and Lindsey Webster.
Lineup and details: festivals.hyattconcerts.com
Crossing the border to Canada, the Montreal International Jazz Festival (June 26 – July 5) remains one of the world’s premier jazz gatherings. Expect a beautiful range of voices and visions, including Ben Harper, Allison Russell, and Chris Botti.
More at: montrealjazzfest.com
Back in the U.S., the Detroit Jazz Festival (August 29 – September 1) continues its tradition of offering free streaming and an ambitious lineup. This year’s program features the Maria Schneider Orchestra, Kenny Barron, the Branford Marsalis Quartet, and a rare reunion of Chucho Valdés and Paquito D’Rivera.
Stream and tickets: detroitjazzfest.org
Meanwhile, the Chicago Blues Festival (June 5–8) might not be strictly jazz, but it’s essential listening for anyone interested in the roots and offshoots of America’s musical heritage. Besides stellar blues acts, the festival offers a rich lineup of events and workshops that delve deep into the blues tradition.
Program and info: choosechicago.com
Looking ahead to fall, the Monterey Jazz Festival (September 26–28) is a must for aficionados. With Alfredo Rodriguez, Grace Kelly, Christian McBride, and Gregory Porter among the featured artists, it’s set to be another unforgettable edition on California’s central coast.
Details: montereyjazz.org
And for those looking to start the new year with some sonic adventure, New York City’s Winter Jazzfest (January 9–15) offers one of the most eclectic and cutting-edge programs in the jazz world.
Tickets and info: winterjazzfest.co
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Article written by: Thierry De Clemensat
Member at Jazz Journalists Association
USA correspondent for Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor for All About Jazz
Editor in chief – Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, April 19th 2025
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