Recognized as the fifth longest-consecutive-running jazz festival, the annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival at Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is an amazing opportunity to hear both world-renowned and emerging jazz artists and bands in one place. The 2018 festival will be held on June 23-24, and it’s expected to feature an extraordinary roster of musicians!
The 2018 Lineup
SPAC recently revealed the lineup of performers for the 2018 Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival. The full list includes jazz luminaries such as Jon Batiste, Chris Botti, Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter, Joey Alexander, and gospel and R&B legend Mavis Staples, who will headline this year’s event, plus a wide range of up-and-coming performers.
While you may recognize a few names from past jazz festivals, this year’s event will also present unique collaborations and never-before-seen ensembles, including the Saratoga debuts of the TEN Trio (Terri Lyne Carrington, Esperanza Spalding, and Nicholas Payton), the all-star trio of Mark Whitfield, Ben Allison, and Billy Drummond, and others.
Performances will begin at 11:00am on both June 23 and 24 at the newly built Charles R. Wood “Jazz Discovery” Stage, and then even more performances will begin at SPAC’s Amphitheater Stage at 3:00pm.
Jazz Fest Entertainment and Activities
In addition to the two days of concerts at SPAC, the Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival will feature a fine arts and crafts fair, CD signings by artists, a southern style BBQ, and other food vendors. Guests are welcome to bring food and beverages, blankets, tents, and lawn umbrellas.
If that wasn’t enough, SPAC has announced the new “Saratoga Jazz Fest Friday” on Friday, June 22, the day before the festival begins. During this special event, local jazz musicians will perform at multiple venues throughout the Spa City in celebration of the community’s rich history of jazz.
Can’t wait for the festival? See more details and ticket information today >>
