Syracuse International Jazz Fest

• Dates: July 9-12. 2026
• Locations: Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards & Syracuse University
• Admission: Free & All Ages

This year’s lineup is pure fire, blending classic soul with genre-pushing jazz and global rhythms. Here’s a taste of who’s performing:

• USAF Airmen of Note – World-class Air Force big band celebrating America's 250th with 22-piece precision.
• Hejira – London ensemble honoring Joni Mitchell's 50th anniversary. North American debut.
• Dumpstafunk – Dumpsta plays Sly. Funk royalty tackling funk royalty.
• Tower of Power – Oakland's brass machine. Fifty-plus years of unshakable groove.
• Gunhild Carling – Sweden's Queen of Swing returns with the Carling Family Band and Syracuse Horns for a Louis Armstrong tribute.
• Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue – High-energy New Orleans funk-jazz fusion.
• Nathan Williams Sr & the Zydeco Cha Cha's – Louisiana zydeco legend. Accordion-driven, dance-floor mandatory.
• Pocket Nod – Late-night party vibes.
• Los Blancos – Late-night party vibes, round two.
• Mike Houston & Sam Wynn Trio, Orange Juice (SU Student Jazz Combo), Drew Serafini Quartet, The Five Families Ensemble, The Tim Herron Quartet, Frank Grosso Organ Trio – Local talent and student standouts keeping Syracuse's scene alive.
• Winston-Salem State University Concert Choir, Syracuse Community Choir, Black Celestial Choral Ensemble – Gospel powerhouses closing out the festival with soul and uplift.

Jazz Fest isn’t just about the music (although, let’s be honest, that’s the main attraction). While you're in town, enjoy:

• Local food trucks and culinary pop-ups
• Arts and crafts vendors
• Jam sessions and educational workshops
• Plenty of family-friendly activities

Extend your stay and explore Syracuse’s rich arts scene, historic neighborhoods, and buzzing breweries.

With over 30 acts, 20+ venues, 2 outdoor stages, and five unforgettable days, Syracuse Jazz Fest 2025 is set to be one of the city’s most dynamic events of the summer. Start planning your visit now, and don’t forget to pack your dancing shoes!

🎷 See the full schedule and latest updates at syracusejazzfest.com

Thursday, July 9 – Opening Night at Syracuse University

Jazz Fest 40 kicks off at the National Veterans Resource Center (101 Waverly Avenue). The USAF Airmen of Note Big Band celebrates America's 250th anniversary with a 22-piece powerhouse performance. Free event with priority seating for veterans.

• 5:00 PM – Reception
• 6:00 PM – Chancellor's Remarks & Welcome
• 6:15 PM – USAF Airmen of Note
• 7:30 PM – Dessert and coffee reception (hang with the band)

Friday, July 10 – Beak & Skiff Apple Hill Concert Venue

For the first time ever, Jazz Fest moves to this nationally recognized orchard and concert destination (2708 Lords Hill Rd, Lafayette).

• 3:30 PM – Mike Houston & Sam Wynn Trio (Tasting Room)
• 5:00 PM – Orange Juice (SU Student Jazz Combo)
• 6:00 PM – Hejira (Joni Mitchell's 50th anniversary celebration, North American debut)
• 7:45 PM – Dumpstafunk (Dumpsta Plays Sly)
• 9:30 PM – Tower of Power
• 10:30 PM – Pocket Nod (late night party)

Saturday, July 11 – Beak & Skiff Apple Hill Concert Venue

Day two at the orchard. Campus opens at noon, music starts at 1:00 PM.

• 1:00 PM – Drew Serafini Quartet (Tasting Room)
• 2:00 PM – The Five Families Ensemble
• 3:00 PM – The Tim Herron Quartet
• 4:00 PM – Frank Grosso Organ Trio
• 5:30 PM – Nathan Williams Sr & the Zydeco Cha Cha's
• 7:00 PM – Gunhild Carling w/ the Carling Family Band & Syracuse Horns (Louis Armstrong tribute)
• 9:00 PM – Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
• 10:30 PM – Los Blancos (late night party)

Sunday, July 12 – Return to Community Gospel Jazz Service

Close out the festival at Hendricks Chapel on the Syracuse University Quad (121 Crouse Drive). Free event with complimentary picnic lunch on the Quad before the indoor Gospel program.

• 12:00 PM – Luncheon reception on the Quad
• 2:30 PM – Transition to Hendricks Chapel
• 3:00 PM – Gospel Jazz Service featuring Winston-Salem State University Concert Choir, Syracuse Community Choir, and Black Celestial Choral Ensemble