Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced today the full music lineup for the 2024 Chicago Jazz Festival, scheduled from Thursday, Aug. 29 through Sunday, Sept. 1. The festival, a Labor Day weekend tradition, will return to Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center to celebrate various forms of jazz through free music programming.

The four-day event aims to showcase local talent alongside national and international artists to promote awareness and appreciation for jazz. Produced by DCASE and programmed by the Jazz Institute of Chicago (JIC), this year's festival will feature headliners such as Amina Claudine Myers, Catherine Russell, Kenny Garrett and the Sounds from the Ancestors, and Spanish Harlem Orchestra.

"Chicago's impact on jazz music is recognized globally," said DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth. "This year is no exception with the lineup of all-star headliners and Chicago’s own Tomeka Reid, Miguel de la Cerna, Bethany Pickens and more taking the stage."

The Jazz Institute of Chicago celebrates its 55th anniversary in 2024. Founded in 1969, this not-for-profit organization works to provide education, support musicians, build audiences, and foster a thriving jazz scene in Chicago. Heather Ireland Robinson, Executive Director of JIC, expressed excitement about this year's lineup: "We are proud of having started the festival in the late 1970s and our more than 40-year partnership with DCASE."

The Harris Theater Rooftop Stage will feature five high school bands on Saturday as part of its Young Lions Jazz program.

DCASE continues to offer support via the Citywide Jazz Community Funding program for free performances citywide leading up to the festival. Participating venues will be announced soon.

The full schedule includes performances at multiple locations such as Claudia Cassidy Theater at Chicago Cultural Center on Aug. 29; Von Freeman Stage - North Promenade at Millennium Park on Aug. 30; Harris Theater Rooftop - Young Lions Jazz at Millennium Park on Aug. 31; and Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park throughout.

WDCB Jazz Lounge will host daily performances by local artists from noon to 8 p.m., with performers yet to be announced.

As in previous years, outside alcohol is prohibited at the festival but can be purchased inside venues. More information about safety protocols can be found on MillenniumPark.org.

DCASE programming receives support from sponsors including Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, WDCB Radio Station (90.9 FM), Chicago Transit Authority among others.

For additional details about the event visit ChicagoJazzFestival.us or Chicago.gov/DCASE.

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