Your Guide to the Twin Cities Jazz Festival
Whether you’re a devout lover of jazz or just a music lover looking to take part in the event—all are welcome to this celebration of music, whatever your level of jazz expertise.
Started in Minneapolis in 1999 by jazz promoters Steve Heckler and Steve Adams, Twin Cities Jazz Fest began as a free community event to promote local artists. Over the years, it has grown into a large festival celebrating jazz music—a genre that spans all ages, races and lifestyles. The free event bounced around the metro before settling into its current home in Lowertown in 2009, helping to develop the district’s lively and vibrant community. This year's performers include Delfeayo Marsalis Quintet, Kenny Barron Trio and Emmet Cohen with Patrick Bartley.
When & Where
2024’s Jazz Festival will be taking place Friday, June 21 - Saturday, June 22 at the beautiful Mears Park in Lowertown.
Other performances at venues across the city will also be taking place over the weekend - check the schedule for more info! Pre-cover charges may apply.
Need a means to get there? Metro Transit is also offering Free Ride Passes for both Friday and Saturday. Fill out the corresponding surveys to receive your free pass.
Admission & Donations
Jazz Festival is free to attend! However, if you value this wonderful Festival, become a Friend to the Twin Cities Jazz Fest and ensure this unique and priceless celebration of Jazz and Community can be possible.
Performances
Some of the headlines for the 2024 Twin Cities Jazz Festival include Stefon Harris & Blackout, Karrin Allyson, Regina Carter Quartet, Joe Lovano Quartet featuring Kenny Werner, John Lockwood, and Fransisco Melo! Check out all the artists.
What to Do Before or After the Festival
Lowertown is alive and offers much to do before or after your visit to the festival. Use our Restaurant Guide and filter by neighborhood to find restaurants to check out in the area, take a walk along the river, and find other free things to do in Saint Paul.
Where to Stay
The Drury Plaza Hotel is the Twin Cities Jazz Festival’s official hotel partner and is offering discounted room blocks for attendees, but there are lots of other great places to stay in the area offering different amenities for festival goers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to park for the Twin Cities Jazz Festival?
There are plenty of parking opportunities around Mears Park, including the Union Depot parking ramps and the Mears Park Place ramp.
Is the festival wheelchair accessible?
Yes, ALL venues of the festival are wheelchair-accessible. Wheelchair-accessible seating is located at the front right side of the main stage at Mears Park.
What time do the outdoor performances end?
Due to City curfews, outdoor stages close at 10pm.
Is there food available at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival?
Yes! This free festival’s success and continuation relies upon your support of food/beverage revenues, so please help keep the festival free by purchasing your food & beverages on-site.