Winter Park Jazz Festival: Celebration of Music, Culture
When summer hits Colorado, music lovers look forward to one iconic event—Winter Park Jazz Festival. Held every July, this festival blends smooth jazz, soul, and R&B into a mountain-view celebration that’s hard to forget. Thousands gather at the scenic Rendezvous Event Center for two full days of unforgettable performances.
Whether you’re new to jazz or a longtime fan, this Festival is the perfect weekend escape.
What Type of Festival It Is?
The Winter Park Jazz Festival is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of music, culture, and community. The two-day event showcases jazz legends, soul icons, and rising stars, creating an experience full of rhythm and emotion.
Artists like Boyz II Men, Sheila E, and Musiq Soulchild have graced its stage, drawing crowds from all over the U.S. You’ll hear smooth saxophone solos, powerful vocals, and high-energy band performances. Families, couples, and groups gather here to enjoy the universal language of music.
| Event Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Music Genres | Jazz, Soul, R&B |
| Artists | National and Local Performers |
| Atmosphere | Open-air, Mountain Views, Community Vibes |
| Audience | Family-friendly, All Ages Welcome |
Festival Location
The Winter Park Jazz Festival takes place at the Rendezvous Event Center in Hideaway Park, located in Winter Park, Colorado. This outdoor amphitheater sits at the heart of the Rocky Mountains, giving visitors cool breezes, panoramic views, and fresh mountain air.
The venue provides open lawn seating, so you can bring lawn chairs, blankets, and enjoy the music while relaxing. Nearby lodging, dining, and transportation make it a convenient and accessible destination for families and friends.
Who Is Holding This Festival?
The Winter Park & Fraser Chamber of Commerce organizes and manages the Winter Park Jazz Festival. They’ve been hosting this beloved event for over 40 years, working with local vendors, tourism departments, and sponsors.
The chamber is responsible for curating the lineup, managing ticket sales, and ensuring visitor safety. Their goal is to provide a well-run, enjoyable event that supports both local businesses and the arts. With their efforts, the festival has grown into one of Colorado’s most popular summer attractions.
Motive Behind This Festival
The main goal of the this Festival is to celebrate jazz culture while promoting tourism and supporting local artists. It also helps to stimulate the Winter Park economy during peak tourist season.
By blending music with community spirit, the event becomes more than entertainment—it’s a cultural celebration. The festival also provides opportunities for youth involvement, music education, and artistic expression.
Much like the Sunflower Festival, which highlights seasonal culture and agriculture, the Winter Park Jazz Festival honors its own legacy—the power of music to bring people together.
Where to Buy Ticket of Festival
Tickets for the this Festival are available on AXS App.
Prices range from $85 to $95 depending on the entry type. There are options for general admission, early entry, and ADA access. Children under 12 can often enter for free when accompanied by an adult.
| Ticket Type | Price Range | Entry Time |
|---|---|---|
| General Admission | $85–$95 | 10:00 AM |
| Early Entry | Slightly Higher | 9:00 AM |
| ADA Accessible | Same as GA | 9:30 AM |
Important Note: All ticket sales are final. The event is rain or shine, so it’s best to prepare for all types of mountain weather.
Who Will attend this Festival?
Here’s a clean and organized table detailing the speakers (performers) at this Festival:
| Date | Performer |
|---|---|
| Saturday, July 19, 2025 | Boyz II MenSheila EGerald AlbrightRyan La Valette (with special guest Selina Albright)B Thompson (Adrian Crutchfield) |
| Sunday, July 20, 2025 | Musiq SoulchildKirk Whalum & Mindi AbairThe Dazz BandFour80EastHazel Miller & The Collective |
All performers are top-tier artists representing jazz, R&B, funk, and soul—truly making this Festival a celebration of diverse and dynamic musical talent.
What’s New at the Winter Park Jazz Festival 2025?
One exciting update for 2025 is the revamped Rendezvous Event Center stage, now featuring improved acoustics and enhanced LED lighting. These upgrades promise a more immersive audio-visual experience, especially during evening sets. The festival also introduces a Jazz Discovery Lounge, where attendees can enjoy intimate performances, Q&A sessions, and live jam circles with emerging artists and headliners alike. This addition mirrors other evolving festivals like the Festival of the Lakes, where community engagement is growing alongside music.
Conclusion
The Winter Park Jazz Festival is more than just an event—it’s a cherished summer tradition. From the majestic mountains to the music that moves your soul, this festival delivers unforgettable memories. Every July, it proves that jazz is alive, thriving, and bringing people together across generations.
Get ready to feel the rhythm, enjoy the beat, and be part of a musical journey that you’ll cherish forever.
