Free Main Street Jazz Fest by ColaJazz returns May 11
April 8, 2024
Outdoor jazz fest on May 11 from 2 – 9 p.m. on the 1700 block of Main Street
The Main Street Jazz Fest presented by the award-winning ColaJazz Foundation (ColaJazz), returns to the 1700 block of Main Street on Saturday, May 11, 2 – 9 p.m. Thanks to the support of the City of Columbia, Richland County, Cool Care, Prisma Health and local sponsors, the fest will be free for all attendees.
The Main Street Jazz Fest kicks off with bands starting at 2 p.m. Food and arts and craft vendors will be on-site, ensuring an immersive experience for all. A VIP option is available for those seeking an enhanced experience.
Recognized as one of the best festivals in the region, ColaJazz Fest features both local talent and renowned jazz artists on a national scale. This year’s performances will feature a blend of established names and rising stars including Don Braden, Allison Miller, Patrick Bartley, Lolivone de la Rosa with Jamile and the Capital City Big Band.
“ColaJazz is thrilled to bring our jazz fest back to Main Street and make it free for all attendees,” says Mark Rapp, Executive Director, ColaJazz Foundation. “Jazz brings people together and we want this jazz fest to be accessible to all who want to experience it.”
Since 2017, ColaJazz has presented artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Chris Potter, Wess “Warmdaddy” Anderson, Wycliffe Gordon, Liz Rosa, Fred Wesley and more at its annual jazz festival — now in its eighth year.
For out-of-town guests, the Main Street Jazz Fest provides a unique opportunity to explore the charm and hospitality of Columbia while enjoying world-class jazz entertainment. From the lively atmosphere on Main Street to the delectable offerings of food vendors, attendees can enjoy a day of music, culture and community.
The ColaJazz Foundation is dedicated to growing, supporting and promoting jazz in the Midlands through events, education, recordings, resources and advocacy to create a thriving culturally rich community.
For more information and to purchase VIP tickets, visit https://colajazzfest.com/.
2024 ColaJazz Fest Schedule
- 2 p.m. — Capital City Big Band
- Kick off the festival with the swinging tunes of Columbia’s own, Capital City Big Band, a 20-piece ensemble that brings the magic of the big band era to life.
- 3:30 p.m. — Lolivone de la Rosa with Jamile
- Experience the soulful sounds of guitarist Lolivone de la Rosa (Puerto Rico) and vocalist Jamile (Brazil) as they showcase their incredible talent.
- 5 p.m. — Patrick Bartley
- Grammy-nominated saxophonist Patrick Bartley Jr. takes the stage with his exceptional talent, promising an unforgettable performance that spans genres.
- 6:30 p.m. — Allison Miller’s Boom Tic Boom
- Prepare to be mesmerized by Allison Miller’s Boom Tic Boom, a band led by the immensely talented drummer Allison Miller. Their unique blend of free and straight-ahead jazz is a must-see for jazz enthusiasts.
- 8 p.m. — Don Braden’s Earth, Wind, and Wonder
- Experience the electrifying performance of Don Braden and his group as they bring a modern jazz twist to classic hits by Earth, Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder.
About the ColaJazz Foundation
Founded in 2014 by Mark Rapp, the ColaJazz Foundation (ColaJazz) is dedicated to growing, supporting and promoting jazz in the Midlands through events, education, recordings, resources and advocacy. A Governor Award-winning, community-minded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ColaJazz brings world-renowned jazz educators and performers face to face with students and the public offering diverse and exciting experiences. ColaJazz produces an annual season of programs and events including ColaJazz Summer Camps, Main Street Jazz Fest, Live in the Lobby (Koger Center for the Arts), ColaJazz Presents (South Carolina Public Radio), Rapp on Jazz (South Carolina Public Radio), after-school curriculum, and more. For more information, visit https://colajazz.com/.
