The Elkhart Jazz Festival is back and better than ever! The 37th annual festival, taking place from June 19-22, promises a memorable weekend at a great price, bringing together music lovers, jazz legends and an incredible lineup of performances.
Taking Center Stage in the Heart of Elkhart (Visit Elkhart County)
History of the Festival 🎷✨
Since 1988, the Elkhart Jazz Festival has attracted jazz lovers from across the country and beyond. Over the years, it’s become an internationally acclaimed event, showcasing over 100 performers from around the world. With an audience of 20,000 each year, the festival is a vibrant celebration of American Jazz. This year promises to carry that rich legacy forward with four days of phenomenal music and festivities.
Thursday, June 19: Diana Krall Takes the Stage 🎹🎤
The festival kicks off with the legendary Diana Krall, a jazz vocalist and pianist known for her captivating contralto vocals and impeccable jazz interpretations. With two GRAMMY® Awards and multiple platinum albums under her belt, Krall’s performance is bound to be a festival highlight. Her jazz stylings will set the perfect tone for an incredible weekend of music. 🎶
Friday, June 20: Yellowjackets and More! 🎷🎸
The Lerner Theatre will be alive with sound as Yellowjackets, masters of jazz fusion, take the stage. Opening for them is the Connie Han Trio, known for their modern, hard-hitting approach to jazz. Whether you’re attending with a Day Pass or Weekend Pass, you’re in for a treat. But it’s not just about the indoor performances! The festival’s outdoor stages will be rocking with performances from David Hilliker’s Jazz Tribute, Sugar Bomb, Pavel & Direct Contact, and more. The energy on the streets of Elkhart will be infectious as you groove to a mix of jazz, funk, and soul.
Saturday, June 21: The Headhunters and a Festival Within a Festival 🎺🎶
Saturday’s headliner, the iconic Headhunters, will bring their jazz-funk brilliance to the stage. Sam Greenfield is opening and will get the crowd pumped up, and with a Day Pass, you’ll have access to a full day of performances. From the Samuel Mosching Quintet to The Frost Duo and Nao Yoshioka, Saturday is packed with top-tier talent. Don’t forget to check out the Elkhart-area high school bands, showcasing the next generation of jazz talent! The South Main Stage will host everything from disco-funk to rock, with performances by Paul Decker & The Difference and The Free Label.
Sunday, June 22: A Grand Finale to Remember 💃🎤
The festival wraps up with a full day of performances, starting with the Dave Bennett Quartet and Mark Schultz, followed by the soulful Generations Trio and the Michiana local Shelly Cowling Quintet. The grand finale will feature Gunhild Carling, a multi-instrumentalist and entertainer who will leave you in awe. If you’re in the mood for a special experience, don’t miss the Jazz Brunch in the Crystal Ballroom with the Ben Davis Trio providing the perfect soundtrack for your Sunday morning.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Elkhart’s Jazz Festival 🎶💃
The Elkhart Jazz Festival offers something for every music lover. With a mix of world-class headliners, intimate performances, and vibrant community energy, it’s a celebration of jazz, culture, and Indiana’s incredible music scene. From the streets of Elkhart to the Lerner Theatre and beyond, every moment promises something magical.
Truth in Jazz Performs at Jazz Fest (Elkart Jazz Festival)
Festival Details:
🗓 When: June 19-22, 2025
📍 Where: Elkhart, Indiana (Lerner Theatre, outdoor stages, and more)
🎟 Tickets: Individual tickets and passes are available for purchase
Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready for Elkhart’s 37th Jazz Festival! It’s going to be a weekend to remember! 🎉
