DC Jazz Festival 2025

The 21st annual DC Jazz Festival 2025 once again gives visitors the opportunity to listen to live jazz performances. Jazz is the music of the moment, often born right on stage and revealing itself in all its depth through improvisation, unexpected transitions, and dialogues between musicians. This atmosphere makes each performance unique and cannot be repeated or recorded.

The festival, created in 2004, connects Ellington’s legacy with modern jazz trends. Each performance and interaction of performers with the audience, like a live conversation, creates an emotional involvement that makes the impression of jazz especially deep, personal, and unforgettable. Live jazz helps you let go of everything unnecessary to hear yourself, reconsider priorities, and remember the main thing. It can remind you of dreams, restore faith in yourself, and give a rare feeling of inner peace.

This year, the DC Jazz Festival has prepared numerous galas and closed performances. 15 locations, master classes, panels, jam sessions, educational programs, and a pleasant competition await you. The main event will take place at The Wharf (along the embankment) from August 27 to 31, from Noon to 10:00 PM.

You have a unique opportunity to hear live such performers as: Branford Marsalis, Ron Carter, Eddie Palmieri, John Scofield, Lalah Hathaway, Sun Ra Arkestra, Gary Bartz, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Jazzmeia Horn, Emmet Cohen Trio, Matthew Whitaker, Akua Allrich and others.

Star program

  • NEA Jazz Masters – Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter, Branford Marsalis, Gary Bartz, Marshall Allen with Sun Ra Arkestra;
  • Legendary vocalists – Lalah Hathaway, Cécile McLorin Salvant;
  • Outstanding instrumentalists – John Scofield, Keyon Harrold, Emmet Cohen, as well as the Baylor Project, The String Queens, JazzDC All-Stars.

Jazz does not rush, does not press, does not impose – jazz lives in the rhythm of the heart, inviting you to stop, breathe out, and just be. This is music that cures fatigue, and the new pricing policy will allow you to be closer to the stage, get comfortable, and get access to the lounge, backstage, and buffet area.

Ticket prices range from $25 to $99. They sell out very quickly, so do not delay! Be careful and use only the official website to purchase tickets.

Aug 27-31, 2025
Washington DC
The Wharf, 1001 7th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024