Jazz has been a long-standing tradition in Hampton, with the first-ever Jazz Festival happening in 1968. For 53 years, the Hampton Jazz Festival has brought the best of jazz, pop, blues, soul, and R&B to our city. 

The 53rd annual Hampton Jazz Festival (June 23-25) comes on the heels of a 3-year hiatus due to COVID-19, and its return has been highly anticipated. Notable performers of the weekend include ‘Uncle’ Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Babyface, Kenny G and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue.  You will be mesmerized by the world-class instrumentalists and vocalists taking the stage! Click here to see the full lineup.

There are lots of activities to enjoy in addition to the Jazz Festival. In between performances, the Hampton Roads Convention Center will host the 757 Extravaganza & Marketplace, the official Jazz Festival retail and after-party experience! Music and art will collide as an array of local artisans will have booths set-up for people to shop their handmade pieces. The jazzy energy continues with live performances and cigars out on the terrace Friday night, daytime DJs and more live music on Saturday, and a gospel, buffet-style brunch on Sunday. ‘Wine’ down the festival with a jam session Sunday evening. Tickets to all 757 Extravaganza events are sold separately from the Jazz Festival.

Marketplace vendors and food trucks will be open from 12 pm-2 am Friday & Saturday, and from 10 am-10 pm Sunday.

The fun continues in Downtown Hampton. Head to Mill Point Park for the annual African American Heritage Festival, where you’ll find over 60 artisans and food vendors, live entertainment, and children’s activities! This event is free and open to the public. 

Outside of this jazzy June weekend, learn where you can find jazz performances in Hampton at our ‘Jazz in Hampton’ webpage, including regular performances at Noir Lounge, Sunday jazz brunches at The Baker’s Wife Bistro and other music venues like the American Theatre, Legacy Live and The Vanguard.