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Jacksonville Jazz Festival Returns with New Venue

Performers at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival engaging with the crowd

News Summary

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is back, scheduled from May 22 to May 25, featuring a stellar lineup including Kool & The Gang and Janelle Monáe. This year’s festival will take place at Tailgaters Parking, adding a fresh atmosphere. With free entry and VIP options available, attendees can enjoy a dynamic music program and additional late-night events, making it a must-attend for jazz enthusiasts.

Jacksonville, Florida – Exciting News for Jazz Lovers

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is set to return from May 22 to May 25, 2025, featuring a dynamic lineup and a fresh new venue. This year, the festival will be held at Tailgaters Parking, conveniently located across from EverBank Stadium, marking the first time the festival will take place at this location.

The music program features renowned headliners such as Kool & The Gang, Janelle Monáe, and The Roots, aiming to attract both local residents and visitors. The festival will commence on Thursday, May 22, with the Jacksonville Jazz Piano Competition kicking off the festivities at 7 p.m..

Main performances will follow, starting on Friday, May 23, at 4:30 p.m., with subsequent shows on Saturday, May 24, at 3:45 p.m., and Sunday, May 25, at 3:15 p.m.. This year, all acts will perform on a single stage, named the Hart Bridge Stage. Day-by-day performer highlights include:

Friday: Maysa, Spyro Gyra, Let’s Ride Brass Band
Saturday: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, winner of the piano competition
Sunday: Boney James, Branford Marsalis Quartet, University of North Florida’s Jazz Ensemble 1

Free Entry and VIP Options

Entry to the festival is free for all attendees, but there are also VIP Experiences available for purchase. These VIP passes are priced at $249 per day or $549 for the entire event. Benefits of the VIP options include prime seating and access to a VIP lounge. Additionally, a Preferred Seating Experience is offered at $129 per day, which includes reserved seating along with access to dedicated bars and restrooms.

Entertainment Beyond the Main Stage

In addition to the daytime performances, the festival will feature late-night entertainment dubbed Jazz Fest After Dark, which will take place at various downtown venues from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This nighttime programming will allow attendees to continue celebrating jazz into the early hours.

Festival Logistics and Regulations

For the safety of all guests, there will be bag checks and metal detectors at the entrance. Restrictions will be implemented regarding what attendees can bring onto the festival grounds. Guests will be allowed to have one factory-sealed water bottle and one collapsible chair. It’s also important to note that there will be no refunds on VIP or Preferred Seating packages in the case of rain or performer cancellations.

In addition to the main festival events, the Late Night Jazz Jam will feature free admission shows at various downtown venues, further enriching the festival experience. Although families are welcome, tickets will be required for children in both VIP and Preferred Seating areas.

Merchandise and Memorabilia

This year’s festival poster is designed by Canadian artist Stin Hrycajkiw and will be available for purchase online, alongside other merchandise such as commemorative lanyards and lapel pins.

The Jacksonville Jazz Festival promises to be a memorable event for music lovers in May 2025, with an impressive lineup of artists and expanded offerings that welcome a diverse audience.