Memorial Day weekend is all about tradition, and for those who love jazz the Atlanta Jazz Festival has become a unique way to celebrate. Now in its 32nd year, the event is one of the longest running jazz festivals in the country. And despite featuring some of the top names in the genre, it is also one of the biggest free festivals of its kind. Here’s a look at some of the other reason you should check out the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
1. The first Atlanta Jazz Festival was held in Grant Park 32 years ago. It has been held in Piedmont Park in recent years, but returns to its original home this year.
2. As always, this year’s event features some of the top names in jazz. Among those performing are Dionne Farris, Freddy Cole, Cindy Blackman (drummer for Lenny Kravitz) and Hiroshima.
3.The Memorial Day weekend event is actually the culmination of an entire month of activities known as the 31 Days of Jazz, which takes place at venues all over Atlanta. The week following the two-day festival includes jazz performances at Agave, Eyedrum, Thrive and other locations.
4. The Atlanta Jazz Festival attracts music fans from around the world, giving locals the opportunity to make global friendships.
5. As is the case with any good festival, food will also be part of the festivities. And aside from typical festival food options, local eateries such as Stella, Tin Lizzy’s and Milltown Tavern will offer picnic lunches and boxed meals.
6. Local attractions such as Zoo Atlanta, the Cyclorama and the Grant Park Community Pool will be open and are within walking distance if you decide to venture outside the festival area.
7. For those who want to continue grooving after the last band plays on Saturday night, the party moves to the W Atlanta Downtown for Late Night Jazz Jam, with a performance by Jaspects.
8. Other attractions at the festival include the Ford Fiesta Exhibit & Test Drive, the NBA Jam Van and representatives from the Atlanta Dream of the WNBA.
9. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or can’t distinguish a trumpet from a xylophone, this is a great opportunity to learn a little more about this truly American art form.
10. Did we mention that it’s free?
What: Atlanta Jazz Festival
Where: Grant Park, 840 Cherokee Ave.
When: May 23-24, Noon-11 p.m.
Cost: Free
Info: Call 404-853-4234 or visit www.atlantafestivals.com.
