The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 lineup features several award-winning artists including Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton, and more. The festival will take place at a new location due to construction at the River Front Plaza, and will feature free performances by these artists at two stages along the St. Johns River.
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is a free four-day music festival held annually during Memorial Day weekend in downtown Jacksonville, FL. Enthusiasts and aficionados from around the world come together to celebrate the music, art, and culture of America’s music. This year’s festival promises to be a memorable event with its diverse lineup of talented musicians and new location.
We’ll delve further into what to expect from the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 lineup and provide some helpful tips for attendees.
Lineup Announcement
The 2026 Jacksonville Jazz Festival lineup has been announced, featuring several award-winning artists, like Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson, Larry Carlton and many more. The festival will be held along the St. Johns River with free performances at two stages.
Jaw-dropping Performances To Look Forward To
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 lineup announcement has got everyone’s heart pumping with some of the biggest names in the music industry. The festival promises a weekend of non-stop entertainment with jazz, soul, and R&B performances by award-winning artists. Here are some of the jaw-dropping performances that every festivalgoer can look forward to:
- Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis: Known as the world-renowned jazz ensemble, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis is expected to put on an exceptional performance.
- Chaka Khan: Experience the soulful voice of Chaka Khan as she graces the stage with her performance.
- Charlie Wilson: Charlie Wilson, the American singer, songwriter, and record producer, is sure to mesmerize the crowd with his R&B style music.
- Samara Joy: The rising star, Samara Joy, is anticipated to deliver a memorable performance with her soulful jazz vocals.
- Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw: Eric Roberson is known for his fusion of R&B and soul music, and when he is joined by special guest Jeff Bradshaw, their performance is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
- Larry Carlton: The Grammy award-winning guitarist and composer, Larry Carlton, is expected to showcase his exceptional skills on stage.
All in all, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience with a lineup of talented and award-winning artists. With the variety of music genres available, every festival-goer is guaranteed to find something they love.
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Featured Artists
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup includes several featured artists who will be performing at two stages along the St. Johns River, including Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton, and more! It is a free four-day music festival held Memorial Day weekend in downtown Jacksonville.
Featured Artists at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is one of the most highly anticipated events for jazz enthusiasts, and the 2026 lineup is no exception. This year’s festival will be featuring an impressive lineup of award-winning performers such as Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton, and more! H3: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis is a world-renowned jazz ensemble that has been entertaining audiences for decades. Known for their exceptional musicianship and unique sound, this orchestra is sure to captivate the audience at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026. H3: Chaka Khan Chaka Khan is a music legend, known for her powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence. With a career spanning over four decades, she has won numerous awards and accolades, including ten Grammy Awards. Her performance at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival is sure to be a highlight of the event. H3: Charlie Wilson Charlie Wilson is a soul and R&B legend with a career that spans over 50 years. From his days as a member of The Gap Band to his successful solo career, Wilson has always been known for his electrifying live performances. At the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026, Wilson is sure to bring the house down with his timeless music and energy. H3: Samara Joy Samara Joy is a rising star in the jazz world, having won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition at just 17 years old. She has since gone on to perform with some of the biggest names in jazz and is known for her incredible vocal range and control. Her performance at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival is one not to be missed. H3: Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw Eric Roberson is a singer-songwriter with a unique sound that blends elements of R&B, hip-hop, and jazz. He will be joined on stage by special guest Jeff Bradshaw, a renowned trombonist and jazz musician. Their collaboration is sure to be a standout moment at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026. H3: Larry Carlton Larry Carlton is a guitarist and composer who has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including Steely Dan and Joni Mitchell. He is known for his impressive guitar skills and his ability to blend jazz with elements of rock and blues. Carlton’s performance at the festival is sure to be one of the most memorable of the event. In conclusion, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 lineup of featured artists is a great mix of legends and up-and-coming talent, promising an unforgettable experience for jazz enthusiasts. With such an impressive lineup, the festival is sure to be a hit with music lovers from all over the world.
Event Overview
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup is set to feature award-winning artists such as Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, among others. The festival will take place over four days, featuring free performances across two stages located along the St.
Johns River.
Free Festival Held Annually Over Memorial Day Weekend
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is a beloved yearly event that has been drawing hundreds of thousands of music enthusiasts over Memorial Day weekend for years. This free four-day event is held in the heart of downtown Jacksonville, Florida, and boasts an incredible lineup of award-winning musicians from all over the world. The festival is known for its diversity and offers something for every music taste, from traditional jazz to fusion, R&B, and soul.
Location And New Site Change For 2026
Exciting news for jazz enthusiasts around the world! The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is proud to announce that it will be moving to a new site for the 2026 event – a change that promises to take the festival to new heights. The event will be located at Metropolitan Park, a picturesque waterfront location in downtown Jacksonville, which will offer festival goers an even more spectacular backdrop to enjoy the music. The festival organizers are thrilled about this move and are already working to ensure that the new location will be perfect for the 2026 event and for years to come.
Lineup
The official lineup for the 2026 Jacksonville Jazz Festival has been announced and it’s nothing short of exceptional. The festival will feature free performances by some of the biggest names in jazz including Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, and Larry Carlton, to name a few. With two stages along the St. Johns River, festival goers will enjoy phenomenal music from a variety of genres. The 2026 lineup promises to be the best and most diverse yet. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, a true celebration of jazz, art, and culture that brings people together from all over the world. Book your tickets now for the Memorial Day weekend 2026 to see some of the best jazz musicians perform in the beautiful new location of Metropolitan Park in Jacksonville, Florida.
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Experience
Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 lineup will feature several award-winning artists including Chaka Khan, Wynton Marsalis with Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson, Larry Carlton, and Jeffrey Bradshaw. The festival will take place along the St.
Johns River at two stages and is a free music festival held annually in downtown Jacksonville, FL.
Celebrating The Culture Of America’s Music
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is more than just another event – it’s a place where music enthusiasts and aficionados from around the world unite to celebrate the music, art, and culture of America’s music. With its rich history and diverse lineup, the festival brings together the best jazz musicians from around the country and beyond, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who attends. This year’s lineup promises to be one of the most exciting yet, featuring free performances by several award-winning artists at two stages along the St. Johns River. Headliners include the legendary Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Grammy Award-winning artist Chaka Khan, R&B superstar Charlie Wilson, rising jazz star Samara Joy, and many more.
What To Bring And What To Expect
If you’re planning to attend the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First of all, it’s always a good idea to bring some sunscreen and a hat – the festival takes place outdoors, and it can get quite hot and sunny during the day. You may also want to bring a blanket or some chairs to sit on, as seating is limited. In terms of what to expect, the festival is a four-day event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend in downtown Jacksonville, FL. In addition to the amazing live music performances, there are also plenty of food and drink options available, as well as art exhibits and other cultural activities. Overall, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves jazz music or wants to experience the culture of America’s music. With its world-class lineup, beautiful location, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that this festival has become one of the most popular events of its kind in the country. So mark your calendars, pack your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the best of jazz music at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival!
History Of The Festival
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 lineup includes Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton and more. The festival will feature free performances by several award-winning artists at two stages along the St.
Johns River.
Origins Of The Festival
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival is a tradition that dates back to 1980 and it has since grown to an event that draws thousands of enthusiasts and aficionados from around the world. The festival started as an effort to keep the jazz tradition alive in the Jacksonville area. Over the years, the festival has welcomed numerous award-winning musicians to stages throughout downtown Jacksonville. It has become an annual celebration of the city’s rich musical heritage, and a showcase for some of the best contemporary jazz performers from around the world.
Growth Over The Years
From its humble beginnings, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival has grown to become one of the largest free music festivals in the US. In its early years, the festival was held in Hemming Park, which was the center of downtown Jacksonville. As the festival grew, the location changed to the Jacksonville Landing, and then to Metropolitan Park. Now, the festival is set to move to a new location in 2026, yet to be announced, with a big lineup featuring Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton, and more. The festival is no longer just about jazz. It has branched into other genres, including R&B, blues, and funk. In addition to the main stage, there are now multiple stages and venues in downtown Jacksonville featuring a wide range of musical performers. In conclusion, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival has become a tradition in the city known for its commitment to celebrating America’s music. As it moves into the future, it will continue to showcase the best jazz and contemporary music, and attract music lovers from all over the world.
Artist Profiles
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup has been announced, featuring performances by several award-winning artists, including Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton, and more.
The festival will be held over four days in downtown Jacksonville and is a celebration of America’s music, art, and culture.
Artist Profiles The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 is all set to return to the city with free performances by several award-winning artists at two stages along the St. Johns River. This year’s lineup is nothing short of spectacular, featuring some of the biggest names in the jazz industry. Let’s take a closer look at some of the featured artists’ backgrounds and history to get an idea of what to expect at this year’s festival.
Chaka Khan
Chaka Khan is a legendary American singer-songwriter with a career spanning over five decades. She has won ten Grammy Awards, sold over 70 million records worldwide, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Chaka initially gained fame as the lead singer of the funk band Rufus before launching her successful solo career in the late 70s with hit singles like “I’m Every Woman,” “Ain’t Nobody,” and “Through the Fire.”
Charlie Wilson
Charlie Wilson is an American R&B singer-songwriter, producer, and former lead singer of the Gap Band. He has been nominated for thirteen Grammy Awards and has released numerous successful albums throughout his career. Wilson is known for his soulful and powerful vocals and his energetic live performances.
Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra With Wynton Marsalis
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra is a fifteen-member ensemble led by trumpet player and composer Wynton Marsalis. The orchestra is dedicated to the performance, preservation, and promotion of jazz. They have released over 30 albums and have performed all over the world, collaborating with numerous renowned artists and ensembles.
Samara Joy
Samara Joy is a young and talented American jazz singer who rose to fame after winning the 2019 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. She has been hailed as “the next great jazz singer” and has already released her debut album, “The Bitter Earth,” to critical acclaim.
Larry Carlton
Larry Carlton is an American guitarist, composer, and producer who has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Steely Dan, Joni Mitchell, and Quincy Jones. He is known for his smooth jazz fusion sound and his virtuosic playing style.
Eric Roberson With Special Guest Jeff Bradshaw
Eric Roberson is an American singer, songwriter, and producer known for his soulful and introspective music. He has released over a dozen albums throughout his career and has been nominated for two Grammy Awards. Jeff Bradshaw is an American trombonist and producer who has worked with several notable artists and has released several successful albums of his own. Together, Roberson and Bradshaw promise to deliver an unforgettable performance. In conclusion, the lineup for Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 is diverse and exciting, featuring some of the most prominent names in the jazz industry. From legendary singers like Chaka Khan and Charlie Wilson to young and promising talents like Samara Joy, this year’s festival promises to be a treat for jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Jazz Competitions
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival lineup for 2026 features many award-winning artists who will be performing for free on two stages along the St. Johns River. Some of the headliners include Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, and Larry Carlton.
Piano Competition And Its Significance In Jazz Music
Jazz music has always been a genre that values individual creativity and improvisation, and nothing highlights this better than a good piano competition. The Jacksonville Jazz Festival has a tradition of hosting some of the finest musicians, and the 2026 edition is no exception. The piano competition is a unique opportunity for jazz musicians to showcase their skills on the grand stage and compete against some of the most talented players in the world. The competition is also a great way to discover new talent and help bring jazz music to wider audiences. The piano is at the heart of jazz music, and in many ways, a competition focused on the instrument is a celebration of the jazz genre itself. Jazz pianists must have an innate understanding of harmony, melody, and rhythm, and the ability to create complex and moving pieces on the fly. At the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026, the piano competition will be a highlight of the event, featuring some of the best musicians from across the world. It will be a true celebration of jazz music and the skilled pianists that bring it to life.
Other Jazz Competitions At Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 will not only feature a piano competition but other competitions as well. The festival will host saxophone, trumpet, drum, and bass competitions. Each competition aims to celebrate the unique skills and styles of some of the most talented jazz musicians across the world. The competition is an opportunity for jazz enthusiasts to watch some of the finest musicians compete head-to-head. It’s also a chance for aspiring jazz musicians to showcase their skills and potentially launch their careers in the music industry. In conclusion, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 will be a fantastic opportunity for jazz enthusiasts to come together and celebrate some of the finest musicians in the genre. From the piano to trumpet, saxophone, and bass, the festival features some of the most exciting jazz competitions around. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable event!
Future Of Jazz Festivals
Get ready for an incredible lineup at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026! Award-winning artists like Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, and Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis will be featured in this free four-day music festival held in downtown Jacksonville.
You won’t want to miss these unforgettable performances along the St. Johns River.
The Importance Of Jazz Festivals For The Music Genre
Jazz festivals are important for the music genre because they bring together a community of jazz lovers, enthusiasts, and musicians from different parts of the world. These festivals provide a platform for established and upcoming jazz musicians to showcase their talents, collaborate, and inspire each other. In addition, jazz festivals attract a diverse audience, including people who may not have been previously exposed to jazz music, thus widening the jazz music community. It also helps to preserve the cultural heritage of jazz and its contribution to music.
Predictions For The Future Of Jazz Festivals
As jazz music continues to evolve, so do jazz festivals. In the coming years, jazz festivals will incorporate more diverse lineups that represent various sub-genres of jazz, including fusion, Latin, and experimental jazz. Furthermore, technological advancements will enhance the festival experience, offering listeners high-quality sound, immersive visual displays and social media integration, and virtual reality experiences. Additionally, jazz festivals will become more accessible, with more venues hosting these events and offering live streaming options for those who cannot attend in person. As the demand for jazz music continues to grow, it’s likely that jazz festivals will continue to thrive and provide music lovers with unforgettable experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions On Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup
Who Is Playing At The Jacksonville Jazz Festival?
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, Larry Carlton, and more award-winning artists will perform at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival. The festival offers free concerts at two stages along the St.
Johns River during Memorial Day Weekend.
Where Will The 2024 Jacksonville Jazz Festival Be Held?
The location for the 2024 Jacksonville Jazz Festival has not been officially announced yet.
Is Jacksonville Jazz Festival Free?
Yes, the Jacksonville Jazz Festival is free. It is a four-day music festival held every Memorial Day weekend in downtown Jacksonville, FL. Award-winning artists perform for free on two stages along the St. Johns River including Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Chaka Khan, Charlie Wilson, Samara Joy, Eric Roberson, Larry Carlton, and others.
What Can You Bring To The Jacksonville Jazz Festival?
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival allows you to bring small bags, blankets, umbrellas, small non-professional cameras, and service animals. However, outside food and drinks, coolers, chairs, large bags, and tents are not allowed.
Conclusion
The Jacksonville Jazz Festival 2026 Lineup is looking to be one of the best yet. With free performances by award-winning musicians like Chaka Khan, Wynton Marsalis and Eric Roberson with special guest Jeff Bradshaw, attendees are in for a treat.
This four-day music festival held Memorial Day Weekend in downtown Jacksonville, FL, promises to be a celebration of America’s music, art, and culture. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience an unforgettable weekend of great music, fun, and excitement.
We’ll see you there!
