Listen to the sweet sounds of jazz under the stars – Savannah Jazz Festival

Never been to a jazz festival before? No worries – the Savannah Jazz Festival is the perfect low-pressure way to dive into the world of live jazz, with everything completely free and zero commitment required beyond showing up with a blanket. Whether you’re a music newbie or just curious about jazz, this beloved 44th annual festival makes it incredibly easy to discover something new while soaking up Savannah’s vibrant culture under the stars.

Best of all, you can stay in Choose Garden City after you soak up the Jazz Vibes in Savannah – Garden City is a quick 10-minute ride from Downtown Savannah with affordable lodging options.

1. It’s Completely FREE!

The 2025 jazz festival features 15 free live performances over three days. The festival takes place:

  • Friday 9/19, Forsyth Park at 6 p.m.
  • Saturday 9/20, Forsyth Park at 2 p.m
  • Sunday 9/21 at 4 p.m. at District Live Plant Riverside District (400 West Riverstreet)

No tickets required for general admission – just show up and enjoy world-class jazz.

2. Bring Your Own Seating

VIP seating areas are sold out, but don’t worry! Bring blankets, folding chairs, coolers or whatever makes you comfortable. High-back chairs are prohibited because they block the view for other attendees. Should you choose to bring them, kindly set them up along the park’s perimeter. Get there early for the best spots on the lawn. Here’s everything else you might want to know.

3. Three Days, Two Venues

  • Friday & Saturday: Forsyth Park (the main venue with the iconic fountain backdrop)
  • Sunday: District Live (indoor venue for “Future of Jazz” performances)
  • Expect crowds of up to 50,000 people based on current interest levels

4. Festival Highlights & Headliners

Friday Night: Blues tribute with Eric Culberson, Rodney Jordan Quintet, Jocelyn Gould with the USC Left Bank Big Band and Spyro Gyra as the evening’s lineup.

Saturday: University of North Florida Jazz Ensemble #1, Savannah Jazz Hall of Fame Band – Tribute to James Moody, US Navy Band SE,  LPT, Oregon’s Tony Monaco B-3 Trio, Anat Cohen with the Savannah Jazz Orchestra, Jody Jazz 25th anniversary show with Kirk Whalum, and Late Night Jam Session in the Desoto Hotel Ballroom 15 East Liberty Street

Sunday: Hilton Head Academy Christian Academy Jazz Band, Savannah Arts Academy Skylite Band, Georgia State Jazz Ensemble.

5. Parking Strategy

Free street parking is available on all surrounding streets near Forsyth. Check out the City of Savannah Forsyth Park Parking map. Metered street parking throughout Savannah is free every Sunday and every night after 8 p.m.

6. Food & Drinks Available

A range of beer, wine, and soft drinks will be available for purchase at the festival, plus food trucks and food vendors will be on-site. No need to worry about bringing meals, though snacks are always smart.

7. Weather Contingency

September in Savannah can be warm and humid with potential for afternoon showers. Bring sunscreen, stay hydrated, and check the festival’s weather policy. The festival has contingency plans for extreme weather conditions. Should rain occur, the festival will continue as planned at Forsyth Park. However, in the case of lightning or thunder, the event will be relocated to an alternate venue: Trustees Theater, 216 E Broughton Street, Savannah, Ga.  31401

Pro Tips for Maximum Enjoyment:

  • Download the festival schedule from savannahjazz.org
  • Follow their social media for real-time updates
  • Bring cash for vendors (though many accept cards)
  • Consider using Savannah’s free DOT shuttle if parking downtown
  • Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes for walking on grass
  • Respect other festival-goers by being mindful of sight lines

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