Q: What is the MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL?

A: The MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL is the region's largest free outdoor summer jazz festival, welcoming tens of thousands of music fans to Montclair each year. It's produced by JAZZ HOUSE KiDS, a nationally recognized jazz education and cultural performance organization.

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Q: When is the MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL happening in 2026?

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A: The MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL takes place on dates in June, July and August with the Grand Finale: Downtown Jamboree + Blockparty being held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Lackawanna Plaza in the heart of Montclair. The MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL Soundcheck Series runs from June 16 through August 4 at Wellmont Arts Plaza.

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Q: Where is the MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL located?

A: The Grand Finale: Downtown Jamboree + Blockparty takes place at Lackawanna Plaza in Montclair. The Soundcheck Series takes place at Wellmont Arts Plaza.

Q: Why did the festival shift from September to August?

A: We wanted to go back to our roots! The MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL was in August every year leading up to the pandemic. We're back to the heart of the summer, which also allows us to once again have the Jamboree align with our Summer Workshop final performance. This means we can present 150+ students on one of our two stages. It's a special moment for JAZZ HOUSE KiDS students and families!

Q: Is the MONTCLAIR JAZZ FESTIVAL really free?

A: Yes! The festival maintains its commitment to accessibility. Attendees are encouraged to register for a JAM PASS to support the festival and gain perks at the festival. 

JAM PASS INFORMATION

What are the benefits of registering for a JAM PASS?

Everyone who registers for a JAM PASS receives:

• Express entry in the JAM PASS lane

• A chance to win VIP tent access for two

How do I register for a JAM PASS?

JAM PASS registration is available at www.montclairjazzfestival.org

ARRIVAL AND ENTRY

Where is the main entrance?
 

The main public entrance is located under the Lackawanna Station arch, on the corner of Bloomfield Avenue and Lackawanna Plaza. Secondary Welcome Areas are located on Grove Street and Bloomfield Avenue, and on Grove Street, corner of Glenridge Avenue. There is an accessible entrance from the TD Bank Parking Lot. Follow event signage and staff directions upon arrival.

What time should I arrive?
 

The event begins at 12 pm, the Jamboree live stages end at 8 pm, and the Block Party continues until 10 pm. 

GETTING AROUND

Where is the main stage?

The primary stage is located in the Lower Lot. It will feature performances by world-renowned headliners and bands. For a complete list of featured artists, visit the Jamboree page.

Where is the JazzHouse Kids stage?

The second stage is located in the Upper Lot. It will feature performances by students and alumni of JazzHouse Kids. 

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Where is the Family Jazz Discovery Zone?

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The Family Jazz Discovery Zone, geared towards the youngest jazz lovers and their families, will be located on Lackawanna Plaza, and will be accessible through the BDP Lackawanna Station building. 

How many vendors are there?
 

The site includes approximately 160 vendors spread throughout both lots. Vendor areas include food and beverage, craft and artisan, local and national purveyors. 

Is there a VIP area?
 

Yes. The VIP area is located in the Lower Lot near the Main stage.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

What can I bring with me?

For General Admission, we recommend planning for the sunny weather and bringing along a water bottle and sunscreen, as well as perhaps a personal electric fan or another cooling device. A camping chair can be useful, if you are planning to enjoy some of the headliners performing throughout the day.  

What items are prohibited?

No vehicles are allowed onsite, besides approved vendors. No weapons, drugs or outside alcohol are allowed on the Festival site. 

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Are pets allowed?

Only service animals are permitted.

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Are there bathrooms?

Several portable bathrooms and accessible bathrooms will be available on the Festival grounds. Bathrooms are maintained throughout the day.  

Can I leave and come back?
 

Yes, re-entry is allowed for JamPass registered guests. 

Is the festival free?

Yes! JamPass registration starts at $0, and keeping the festival accessible to all is part of our mission here at

JazzHouseKids. At the same time, your generous donation goes a long way toward supporting our year-long activities, and we’re grateful for any amount you’re able to give, when registering, and at the event. 

What are the festival hours?

The Jamboree is 12pm-8pm, and the Block Party is 8-10 pm. 

What happens if it rains?

The Festival is Rain or Shine. In case of extreme weather, official notice will be posted on the Festival website.

Can I bring a stroller?

Yes, strollers are allowed at the Festival. 

Are bicycles or scooters allowed?

The festival is best experienced on foot, or seated. 

Are there water stations?

Water is available for sale at the Festival bars. 

How do I contact security or report an emergency?

Security is stationed in the Welcome areas, at bar entrances and in front of the stages. Please contact any security officer nearby, if you have an emergency or need security assistance. 

Is there Wi-Fi or should I expect limited cell service?

General Wi-Fi is not provided for Festival attendees. Due to the large audience size, it is expected that cell service will be slow and mobile services will take longer to load onto your device. We recommend printing or taking a screenshot of any relevant information you might need.