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Written by: E. George
Published May 6, 2025 @ 2:10 PM ET
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. – The city of Atlanta is set to come alive with the sounds of jazz throughout the month of May as the 48th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival unfolds across parks and neighborhoods, culminating in a major Memorial Day weekend celebration in Piedmont Park.
Organized by the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, the festival includes a diverse series of free performances designed to bring jazz to the community and highlight both emerging and established talent.
The festivities begin with the Neighborhood Jazz Series, a series of weekend concerts held at local parks and co-hosted by Atlanta City Council members. These concerts, taking place on Saturdays and Sundays from May 3 to May 18, will showcase local musicians and student ensembles in outdoor settings across the city.
Performances are scheduled in Shirley Clark Franklin Park, Mozley Park, Washington Park, Grant Park, and West Manor Park. Each event is planned from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and is hosted by various council members representing different districts.
Performers range from university jazz combos to regional acts like the Stith Brothers and JaaLa, providing a stage for both seasoned professionals and the next generation of jazz talent. The Neighborhood Jazz Series serves as a community-oriented prelude to the larger festival events and reflects the festival’s mission to educate and inspire a broad audience.
The celebration continues Memorial Day weekend, from May 24 to May 26, with three days of performances at Piedmont Park. Beginning each day at 11:00 AM and running into the evening, this flagship event will feature internationally and nationally recognized artists alongside local performers. Highlights of the weekend include sets by Derrick Hodge, Dianne Reeves, Charles McPherson, Ravi Coltrane, and the Russell Gunn & Blackhawk Quartet.
Piedmont Park will offer more than just music. Festivalgoers can explore the Publix KidZone, where children and families can enjoy interactive games and receive free books from the GEEARS Mayor’s Summer Reading Club.
A diverse selection of food vendors will be on-site, offering cuisines ranging from Caribbean to classic American barbecue. Visitors can also shop for artisan goods, jazz festival merchandise, and unique crafts from vendor booths throughout the park.
A special pre-festival event featuring pianist Robert Glasper and vocalist Baby Rose will be held on Friday, May 23, at Atlanta Symphony Hall.
While admission to the main events is free, attendees are encouraged to plan ahead, particularly regarding transportation. The use of MARTA or bicycles is recommended, as on-site parking is limited and local street parking is prohibited. A complimentary bike valet will be available near Park Tavern on 10th Street.
The Atlanta Jazz Festival is made possible through the support of numerous sponsors, including Design Essentials, Publix, PNC Bank, and the Atlanta Falcons.
Now in its 48th year, the Atlanta Jazz Festival continues its tradition of making jazz accessible to the public while honoring the genre’s rich cultural heritage. As one of the country’s largest free jazz festivals, it remains a vital platform for artistic expression, community engagement, and musical exploration.
For complete schedules, artist information, and transportation details, visit atljazzfest.com.