Ditch the velvet ropes — the annual Atlanta Jazz Festival is all about free jazz for all. Held over Memorial Day weekend in Piedmont Park, a 200-acre greenspace in downtown Atlanta, this three-day extravaganza is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the country; last year, over 200,000 people attended. The outdoor festival features jazz artists from all over the world, with one main stage pumping out everything from smooth crooners to head-bobbing bebop.
In 2024, that smorgasbord will include heavy hitters like Cécile McLorin Salvant and André 3000 alongside rising stars and local legends like Groove Centric and Butcher Brown. Pack a picnic spread, a blanket for lounging and your dancing shoes to celebrate the region’s history and culture of jazz. Just be prepared for a crowd – this legendary festival attracts jazz aficionados from all over. Some folks will opt to pay for VIP tickets to get better access. Others won’t want the part to end and will pay for the Saturday late-night concert at Park Tavern featuring Lauren Henderson.
The Specs
- An estimated 200,000 people attend the festival each year.
- This festival is free, baby!
- Explore the rest of Atlanta while you’re there.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to the Atlanta Jazz Festival?
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the way to go.
Where does the Atlanta Jazz Festival take place?
Piedmont Park in Atlanta, Georgia.
When is the festival?
May 25-27.
I thought it was 31 days of jazz?
The Atlanta Jazz Festival produces an event series throughout metro Atlanta called 31 Days of Jazz in the month of May.
What’s the bag policy?
Bags under 6’’ x 9’’ are permitted, otherwise, they must be clear. All are subject to being searched upon entry.
Is the event ADA-accessible?
There are a few ADA-accessible entrances to the festival listed on their website. (atljazzfest.com)
Who produces Atlanta Jazz Festival?
The Atlanta Jazz Festival is produced by the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, though it is funded in part through sponsorships and the festival’s non-profit entity. The event is one of the country’s largest free jazz festivals.
When is the the Late Night Jazz Jam?
This “ode to Atlanta’s classic jazz clubs” is Saturday, May 25 at Park Tavern.
When does Andre 3000 perform?
Andre 3000, who is expected to perform his new solo album New Blue Sun live at the fest, is scheduled for 7pm on Monday, May 27.
How can I contact the fest?
The email is atlantajazz@atlantaga.gov or you can call (404) 546-7246.
Can I take Marta (the subway) to the park?
It’s a 15-to-20 minute walk to Piedmont Park from either Arts Center Station or Midtown Station.
Where should I stay?
Atlanta has a variety of hotels and home rentals to choose from, though the festival website encourages folks to stay at The Starling Atlanta Midtown.
Is there anything else to know?
Just know the entire month of May is a jazz celebration in Atlanta. Beyond the festival there is a neighborhood jazz series, a youth jazz band competition and many, many artists to see.
Is Lil John Roberts playing?
On May 24, the day before the fest officially starts, to celebrate WCLK 91.9’s 50th anniversary, the Atlanta Jazz Festival is presenting a show featuring Lil John Roberts with an Atlanta All-Star Band.
Which artists are on the Atlanta Jazz Fest lineup?
The full lineup for the festival is New Jazz Underground, Sullivan Fortner, Butcher Brown, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Something Else!, Okan, Luca Ciarla Trio, Jacques Schwarz-Bart, Olatuja, Paquito D’Rivera, Justice Michael & the Passage, Kels, Groove Centric, Andrê 3000 and Lizz Wright.
