Jazz festivals aren’t just concerts, they’re full-on experiences. If you’re a lifelong fan like me or just curious about the rhythm, 2025 is packed with events you’ll want to find.

From massive gatherings I’d love to revisit in New Orleans and Los Angeles to soulful nights you could experience in Jakarta or Switzerland, there’s a jazz fest for every kind of listener.

You’ll find big-name headliners, hidden gems, fantastic food, and a vibe that stays with you. Wondering which ones are worth your time this year? Let me show you some of the best jazz festivals and how you can enjoy them like a pro.

What Is a Jazz Fest and What Can You Expect?

A jazz festival is a live celebration that celebrates jazz in all its forms, from classic to contemporary. These festivals usually feature multiple stages, local food vendors, and a mix of well-known and emerging artists.

The 2025 celebration kicks off in April, with events running through the summer and into early fall. You can expect live performances, dancing crowds, unique art markets, and family-friendly activities.

If you’re a lifelong fan or new to jazz, festivals offer a fun, energetic way to experience the music up close.

Top Jazz Fest to Attend in 2025

Find the biggest, best, and most exciting jazz festivals happening worldwide in 2025, with dates, lineups, and tips.

Major Jazz Fest

Check the most popular and widely attended jazz festivals in the U.S., featuring top artists, big venues, and large crowds.

1. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

New Orleans comes alive with a 10-day celebration. This massive 10-day festival blends jazz, funk, hip-hop, gospel, and more. In 2025, expect big names like Lil Wayne, Pearl Jam, Laufey, and Burna Boy.

Daily “cubes” (lineup grids), food vendors, cultural crafts, and second-line parades make this a can’t-miss event. Plan ahead for hotel stays and check the festival map to navigate the fairgrounds. It’s both a music and cultural celebration.

2. Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival

The Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival features the Blue Note Jazz Fest and showcases a mix of legends and modern stars. Headliners in 2025 include Grace Jones, De La Soul, the Isley Brothers, and Rapsody.

Taking place at the scenic Hollywood Bowl, this two-day event includes curated food stands, easy shuttle options, and stacked lineups. It’s perfect for music lovers who want a smooth, stylish summer night of jazz under the stars.

3. Newport Jazz & Newport Beach Jazz Festivals

Two distinct events: Newport Jazz Festival in Rhode Island (Aug 1–3) and Newport Beach Jazz Festival in California (June). The East Coast version is historic and known for experimental sets and waterfront views.

The West Coast fest offers smooth jazz favorites and sunny, relaxed vibes. 2025 lineups include Boney James, Jeffrey Osborne, and Anthony Hamilton. Make sure to check venue policies and weather gear suggestions, especially near the ocean.

4. DC Jazz Festival

DC Jazz Fest is a citywide event that brings music to neighborhoods, parks, and clubs. It’s a mix of free and ticketed shows, with stages along the waterfront and in historic venues.

Great for discovering new talent and enjoying D.C.’s culture alongside the music. In 2025, it promises an even bigger lineup, with community stages, indoor concerts, and food trucks. Public transit is highly recommended due to limited parking.

5. Jacksonville Jazz Festival

One of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, Jacksonville’s event offers multiple stages set up along city streets. Dates are still TBA for 2025, but the weekend usually falls around Memorial Day.

The atmosphere is family-friendly, with food vendors, art installations, and lots of open space for chairs and blankets. Great for newcomers to jazz or casual listeners. Arrive early for parking or use city trolleys to get around.

Notable U.S. and Global Jazz Festivals in 2025

In addition to headline festivals, many regional and international events bring unique styles, local culture, and legendary performances. Here’s a look at the top secondary festivals happening in 2025.

6. Hampton Jazz & Music Festival (VA)

Held annually in Hampton, Virginia, this long-running festival combines R&B and jazz on one energetic stage. 2025’s lineup includes Patti LaBelle, Keith Sweat, and Anthony Hamilton. It’s an indoor event, offering a comfortable summer concert experience with a mature, soulful vibe.

Perfect for fans of classic jazz and R&B sounds, this weekend celebration is often paired with local reunions and church group trips, making it a tradition-rich experience.

7. Cincinnati Music Festival (OH)

Previously known as Cincinnati Jazz Fest, this event blends jazz, R&B, and soul into one huge celebration. Happening July 24–26, 2025, it features both throwback favorites and modern artists.

The crowd vibe is high-energy, and it often attracts fans across generations. While rooted in jazz, expect lots of crossover sounds. Located at Paycor Stadium, it’s easy to access and close to downtown lodging and dining.

8. Rochester International Jazz Festival (NY)

Running June 20–28, 2025, this festival features more than 100 performances across indoor and outdoor venues. Headliners include Trombone Shorty, Lettuce, and Jesus Molina. From avant-garde to bluesy vocals, the event showcases a wide spectrum of jazz styles.

The City of Rochester also presents a popular free series. It’s one of the best places to discover emerging jazz talent while enjoying a relaxed, walkable urban setting.

9. Capital Jazz Fest (MD)

This Maryland festival is known for its “jazz spa weekend” vibe, with a mix of smooth jazz, funk, and soul. Dates for 2025 are still TBA, but it typically runs in early June.

Past performers include Jill Scott, Ledisi, and Marcus Miller. It’s a weekend of rhythm, relaxation, and good food. With on-site vendors and shaded areas, the festival is both lively and laid-back, ideal for adult audiences.

10. Steel City Jazz Festival (AL)

Located in Birmingham, Alabama, it honors Southern jazz roots with powerful performances. Dates for 2025 are still pending, but the festival typically features traditional, gospel, and blues-infused jazz.

It’s known for its lively crowd, excellent Southern food options, and a deep connection to local music history. It’s a hidden gem that offers an authentic cultural experience for those looking to enjoy regional flavor with world-class sound.

11. Java Jazz Festival (Indonesia)

Held in Jakarta, this is one of the biggest jazz festivals in the world. The Java Jazz Festival draws international headliners and Asian fusion artists. The event spans multiple indoor venues and often includes industry panels, workshops, and pop-up performances.

Fans can stream or catch highlight videos online if they can’t attend in person. Java Jazz offers a great glimpse into the global reach and future of jazz.

12. Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland)

Set against the backdrop of Lake Geneva, Montreux is one of Europe’s most iconic jazz festivals. Though it began with pure jazz, it now includes soul, blues, and world music. It’s known for intimate performances and unforgettable live recordings (Miles Davis, Nina Simone).

The 2025 edition is already generating buzz, with YouTube channels sharing highlights. It’s a must-watch or bucket-list experience for global jazz fans.

13. International Jazz Day 2025

Observed on April 30 each year, UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute lead International Jazz Day. In 2025, Abu Dhabi will be the global host city. The celebration includes concerts, educational programs, and community events held in over 190 countries.

It’s a moment to recognize jazz as a tool for peace, unity, and cultural exchange. Many performances are streamed online, allowing global audiences to join from home.

Jazz Festival Calendar by Month

Plan your jazz year easily with this simple month-by-month guide, covering key U.S. festivals from spring to early fall.

Use this calendar to choose your city, pack your bags, and enjoy smooth sounds all season long in 2025.

Headline Performers in 2025

Meet the top artists making headlines at Jazz Fest 2025, from legends to fresh voices lighting up the stage.

Lil Wayne

Known for his hip-hop legacy, Lil Wayne is headlining the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2025. His unique presence brings crossover energy to the jazz scene, drawing huge crowds and younger audiences.

He delivers a high-energy set and a lively atmosphere as he mixes rap classics with the spirit of New Orleans music culture.

Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam’s rock roots make them a standout at this year’s biggest jazz event in Louisiana. Their performance adds edge and excitement to a mostly jazz-heavy lineup.

Fans can expect a powerful live show that blends guitar-driven anthems with emotional depth, a rare crossover appearance that’s sure to be a festival highlight in 2025.

Laufey

Laufey brings a fresh twist to jazz with her vintage-inspired vocals and Gen Z appeal. She’s appearing at the New Orleans Jazz Fest, offering mellow tones and heartfelt storytelling that blend classical, jazz, and pop influences.

Her set is perfect for those who appreciate jazz’s softer, melodic side with a modern perspective.

Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle remains a powerhouse performer, known for her soulful voice and commanding stage presence. She’ll headline the Hampton Jazz Festival in 2025.

With decades of hits and undeniable charisma, her performance will likely blend jazz, soul, and R&B classics, making it a must-see for long-time fans and new listeners alike.

Trombone Shorty

A New Orleans native, Trombone Shorty fuses funk, rock, hip-hop, and jazz into explosive live shows. He’s playing at multiple festivals in 2025, including New Orleans and Rochester.

He blends powerful brass and stage energy; his sets are full of brass-driven sound, crowd engagement, and hometown pride. Don’t miss his high-octane stage performance.

De La Soul

Hip-hop pioneers De La Soul are set to appear at the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival. Their presence reflects jazz’s influence on classic hip-hop and modern funk.

With a legacy of innovation, clever lyrics, and upbeat stage chemistry, they’re a nostalgic yet lively act that adds creative flavor to this year’s lineup.

Grace Jones

Grace Jones headlines the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival with her iconic avant-garde style. Known for genre-blending music and bold performances, she brings theatrical flair to the jazz stage.

Her set is expected to mix funk, reggae, and soul, creating a visually stunning and musically rich experience that pushes the boundaries of jazz festival tradition.

How to Get Tickets, View Schedules, and Find Jazz Festivals Easily

Planning ahead makes your Jazz Fest experience easier and more enjoyable. Always buy tickets from the official festival websites to avoid scams and overpriced resellers.

These sites also provide daily schedules, parking tips, and lists of items you can bring. For New Orleans, the “cubes” help you see performance times and stage locations; they’re available to download in advance.

Many festivals also support accessibility, offering ADA services, senior entry assistance, and shuttle options to help you move around comfortably. Check the festival website for updates before you head out.

Travel Tips for Festival-Goers

Make your festival trip easy by planning ahead, from where you’ll sleep to what you’ll pack and how you’ll get around.

• Reserve nearby lodging to skip long commutes and save money near the venue to avoid last-minute price hikes and long commutes.
• Pack for the weather, bring sunblock, rain ponchos, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.
• Download local apps for parking, food delivery, ridesharing, and public transportation to move around smoothly.
• Set a budget for tickets, food, transport, and merch so you’re not caught off guard by festival expenses.

Conclusion

Jazz festivals in 2025 offer more than just great music; they give you and me a chance to connect with the culture, community, and energy behind every note.

If you’re planning a whole trip or just thinking about catching one nearby, you now know what to expect, where to go, and who’s performing.

I’d say bookmark your favorite dates, grab your tickets early, and keep your bag light, just bring your love for music. If you found this guide useful, check out my favorite gear for festival travel or tips for making the most of your first jazz fest.