Jazz enthusiasts rejoice! 2023 is a great year for jazz fests. There are so many upcoming jazz festivals, you’re sure to find one near you! So without further ado, here are more of the upcoming jazz festivals in the U.S. in 2023!
1) PDX Jazz Festival — Portland, Oregon
February 16-26, 2023
This year is the 25th anniversary of this event! Also known as the Biamp Portland Jazz Festival, the lineup includes the Hubert Laws Quintet, Angelique Kidjo, Nickodemus, and the Aaron Burnett Trio. Visit the link above to see the entire lineup, view the schedule, and purchase tickets (which are on sale now)! Be quick though; several performers’ events are already sold out! There are even some free events, like the Mia Nicholson Quartet playing February 17 at 6 p.m.
2) New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival — New Orleans, Louisiana
April 28-May 7, 2023
It’s over a week of music and festivities in New Orleans. Featuring artists from a wide spectrum of genres, including Lizzo, Ed Sheeran, The Lumineers, Leon Bridges, Ludacris, and Los Lobos, this fest has something for everyone. Tickets are on sale now at the link above (which also has convenient hotel recommendations and more!). Plus, you can see the full lineup!
3) Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival — Los Angeles, California
June 17-18, 2023
Formerly known as the Playboy Jazz Festival, this jazz fest was started by Hugh Hefner (hence the former name!). It always promises a star-studded event and has been held in Los Angeles ever since 1979. Headliners were just announced and include Samara Joy, Kamasi Washington, and Leon Bridges. Tickets go on sale at the link above on March 14! That’s also when the full lineup will be announced.
4) Long Beach Jazz Festival 2023 — Long Beach, California
August 2023 (exact dates not confirmed yet)
This late summer event in sunny Long Beach California always promises to be an event to remember. This is a three-day event. The lineup has not been announced yet, but 2022 performers included Robert Glasper, Kandace Springs, and Jonathan Butler. Visit the link above to get more info and purchase tickets when they go on sale.
5) Monterey Jazz Festival — Monterey, California
September 22-24, 2023
The longest running jazz festival in the world! It’s going to be fronted by Dee Dee Bridgewater and Kurt Elling on vocals. Tickets for their tour (various locations) are on sale now at the link above. The festival itself, however, will be held in late September. Did you know? Every year, the Monterey Jazz Festival donates its proceeds towards music education!
