Memorial Day Weekend in Atlanta: Jazz Festival Returns for 49th Year

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | February 15, 2026

One of the nation’s largest free jazz festivals is set to return to the city’s heart this Memorial Day Weekend. The 49th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival will take place May 23–25 at Piedmont Park, bringing three days of music, culture, and community to Midtown.

Presented by Design Essentials and powered by Bank of America, the festival runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, with live performances scheduled from 1 p.m. until 11 p.m.

“We have a fabulous lineup of musicians performing at the 49th Annual Atlanta Jazz Festival,” said Adriane Jefferson, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. She noted that this year’s roster blends national and local talent across traditional, contemporary, hip-hop, R&B, soul, funk, and modern jazz.

The weekend opens Saturday with Buddy Red at 1 p.m., followed by aja monet, Nate Smith, Christian McBride & Ursa Major, and a 9 p.m. headlining performance by Kamasi Washington.

Sunday’s lineup features Cleveland P. Jones, the Myron McKinley Trio, Donnie – The Colored Section, Esperanza Spalding, and a highly anticipated 9 p.m. set from The Roots.

The festival closes Monday with Cody Matlock, Nicole Zuraitis, Destin Conrad, Butcher Brown, and Grammy-winning artist PJ Morton at 9 p.m.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens shared a special video message welcoming residents and visitors to the annual celebration.

New Partners, Same Tradition

Now entering its 49th year, the festival marks a new chapter with Sol Fusion serving as Festival Manager and Next Level Events leading artist booking and management. Organizers say the partnerships aim to elevate the festival’s production and reach.

Cornell McBride, CEO of Design Essentials, said supporting the festival reflects the company’s deep ties to Atlanta. “We don’t just know hair — we know our community,” he said, emphasizing the brand’s connection to the city’s culture and creativity.

Bank of America Atlanta President Al McRae echoed the importance of the arts in strengthening communities and celebrating Atlanta’s musical legacy.

What Festivalgoers Can Expect

Admission is free and open to the public.

Families can visit the Publix KidZone, a space designed for children with interactive activities and games. A wide range of food vendors will offer everything from barbecue and gyros to Caribbean cuisine, while local artisans will sell art, clothing, jewelry, and official festival merchandise.

Organizers remind attendees that grilling, pets, tent staking, and glass containers are not permitted in the festival area.

VIP lounge experiences are available for those seeking premium seating and amenities. Details can be found at atljazzfest.com.

Presented by the City of Atlanta’s Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, the Atlanta Jazz Festival continues its mission to educate and entertain diverse audiences while nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians.

As the festival approaches its 50th year milestone, Memorial Day Weekend in Atlanta once again promises the rhythm, soul, and unmistakable energy that have defined this event for nearly five decades.

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