Jacksonville, Florida, January 25, 2026
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is set to return to downtown Jacksonville, bringing together music lovers for a weekend of live performances, food, and community engagement. The festival will include the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition and three days of free jazz performances featuring both established and up-and-coming artists. With roots going back over four decades, the festival continues to celebrate the vibrant jazz culture in the city and offers local food vendors to enhance the experience for attendees.
Jacksonville Jazz Festival Returns Memorial Day Weekend 2026
Jacksonville, Florida – The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is set to return to downtown Jacksonville from May 21 to 24, 2026, offering a weekend filled with live music, food, and community engagement. This annual event has been a staple in the city’s cultural calendar for over four decades, celebrating the rich tradition of jazz and its influence on the local community.
Event Details
The festival will commence on Thursday, May 21, with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition presented by Yamaha at the Florida Theatre. This competition showcases emerging talent and sets the tone for the weekend’s festivities. Following the competition, attendees can enjoy three days of free live performances at Ford on Bay, located in the heart of downtown Jacksonville. The event will feature a diverse lineup of jazz artists, ranging from seasoned veterans to promising newcomers, ensuring a dynamic musical experience for all attendees.
Festival Highlights
- Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition: Kicking off the festival on Thursday night at the Florida Theatre, this competition highlights the skills of emerging jazz pianists.
- Live Performances: Three days of free live music at Ford on Bay, featuring a mix of established and up-and-coming jazz artists.
- Food and Beverage: A variety of local food vendors and beverage stands will be available, offering a range of culinary delights to complement the musical performances.
- Community Engagement: The festival serves as a gathering point for jazz enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and cultural appreciation.
Background
Established in 1981, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival has grown into one of the Southeast’s premier free jazz festivals. Over the years, it has attracted a wide array of artists and audiences, contributing to Jacksonville’s reputation as a vibrant cultural hub. The festival’s move to downtown Jacksonville has allowed for greater accessibility and a more immersive experience for attendees.
For more information on the festival schedule, lineup, and ticketing, please visit the official Jacksonville Jazz Festival website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the dates for the 2026 Jacksonville Jazz Festival?
The festival is scheduled for May 21 to 24, 2026.
Where will the festival take place?
The event will be held at Ford on Bay in downtown Jacksonville, Florida.
Is there an admission fee for the festival?
Admission to the festival is free, with options for premium experiences available for purchase.
What is the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition?
The competition, presented by Yamaha, takes place on Thursday night at the Florida Theatre and features emerging jazz pianists competing for cash prizes and the opportunity to perform at the festival.
What amenities will be available at the festival?
The festival will offer a variety of food vendors, beverage stands, and merchandise booths, providing a comprehensive experience for attendees.
Key Features of the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | May 21 to 24, 2026 |
| Location | Ford on Bay, downtown Jacksonville, Florida |
| Admission | Free, with premium experiences available for purchase |
| Opening Event | Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition at the Florida Theatre on Thursday night |
| Performances | Three days of live music featuring a mix of established and emerging jazz artists |
| Amenities | Food vendors, beverage stands, and merchandise booths |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
