Since 1974, jazz fans from all over the globe have flocked to Chicago for the annual Chicago Jazz Festival, which showcases jazz legends as well as up-and-coming musicians. This year’s four-day festival will run from August 28 -31, 2025.
Jazz Music Festival in Millennium Park, courtesy of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs
Celebrate jazz in all its forms in Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center, as well as neighborhood venues, during this beloved Labor Day weekend tradition.
The official Chicago Jazz Fest kick-off unfolds on August 28, 2025, with innovative bassist Esperanza Spalding headlining at 7:45 pm at Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
Esperanza Spalding, courtesy of Chicago Jazz Fest.
The festivities continue at Millennium Park at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion from 3:45 pm to 9 p.m. on August 29-31. Bring a blanket or chair to sit on the lawn and enjoy your own picnic or vendor snacks.
As one of Chicago’s most iconic summer festivals, the jazz fest draws fans from all over the world so arrive early for the best seats and be prepared for large crowds.
The highlights include the Ari Brown Quintet, Monty Alexander, Patricia Barber, Kermit Ruffins, the Ernest Dawkins Ensemble. New Horizons Redux and Eliades Ochoa. Check out the schedule here.
Chicago Jazz Festival
Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph)
August 28-31, 2025, 3:45 -9 pm
Free
More free and cheap music events
Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington St.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 744-6630
