Experience the vibrant sounds of jazz in Downtown Scranton at the 21st Annual Scranton Jazz Festival! This three-day event will feature over 80 musicians performing across 20+ venues, bringing the spirit of New Orleans to life with unforgettable jazz performances. Enjoy the diverse talents of national, regional, and local artists, each delivering unique and captivating sounds.
The festival's free jazz walk invites music enthusiasts to stroll through Downtown Scranton, enjoying live musical performances at various local restaurants, lounges, and other venues along the route.
Experience three vibrant days of live jazz, blues, swing, and world beat music as nationally, regionally, and locally acclaimed artists fill the streets of downtown Scranton with world-class sound. The festival kicks off on First Friday, transforming the city into a lively celebration with artisan vendors, family-friendly activities, live performances, and musical showcases throughout the evening.
The 2026 Scranton Jazz Festival brings an unforgettable weekend of world-class jazz to Downtown Scranton, featuring the free Jazz Walk, live jazz brunches, and headlining performances by the Grammy Award-winning Dirty Dozen Brass Band and legendary bassist Ron Carter.
Friday, August 7th
Jazz Walk Kickoff
Kick off the Scranton Jazz Festival with the free Jazz Walk across more than 20 venues throughout Downtown Scranton. Free trolley shuttles will run between participating stops from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, making it easy to experience live music across the festival. The Jazz Walk continues throughout the weekend, giving visitors even more opportunities to enjoy performances at participating venues.
For more information and an interactive map of participating Downtown venues, please visit the Scranton Jazz Festival's website.
Ride the rails with live acoustic jazz aboard a vintage steam train during the Jazz Fest Flyer! Departing from Steamtown National Historic Site, this one-day-only excursion features scenic rides to Nay Aug Park and back with live performances by Mike Kuehn & The PA Jazz Society featuring Drew Nugent and Johnny Peppers. Multiple departures are available throughout the day.
Experience the legendary Dirty Dozen Brass Band live at the Theater at North! For more than 45 years, the Grammy Award-winning New Orleans group has blended traditional brass band music with funk, bebop, R&B, and soul, earning an international reputation for their high-energy performances. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with the show beginning at 7:00 PM.
Celebrating over 45 years since their founding in 1977, the Grammy Award-winning New Orleans-based band, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, has taken…
Sunday, August 9th
Jazz Brunch
Wrap up the weekend with a Jazz Brunch at participating Downtown Scranton restaurants, where live music accompanies brunch menus from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Brunch is available at each restaurant's regular pricing.
For more information and an interactive map of participating Downtown brunch restaurants, please visit the Scranton Jazz Festival's website.
The 21st Annual Scranton Jazz Festival concludes at the Scranton Cultural Center with the SJF Big Band, led by Marko Marcinko, and a special performance by legendary bassist Ron Carter. The evening opens with the PA Jazz Institute at Marywood University Student Ensemble, showcasing the next generation of jazz talent. One ticket provides admission to both performances. Doors open at 5:00 PM, and the concert begins at 6:00 PM.
The Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel, a host venue for the festival, features a covered outdoor patio for live music and indoor spaces for late-night jazz events.
Limited on-street parking is available in and around Downtown Scranton. Additionally, five Central Parking Garages are conveniently located within close proximity to the Scranton Jazz Festival venue locations.
We recommend confirming operating hours and getting up-to-date info directly with the venue prior to your visit.
The Scranton Jazz Festival and many performances throughout Downtown Scranton are free to attend. Some featured concerts and special performances require tickets. Check the Scranton Jazz Festival website for ticket information and the latest schedule.
Where does the Scranton Jazz Festival take place?
The festival is held at venues throughout Downtown Scranton, including theaters, restaurants, hotels, and other participating locations. The Jazz Walk connects more than 20 venues across the city.
What is the Scranton Jazz Walk?
The Jazz Walk is a free, self-guided experience that lets visitors enjoy live jazz performances at participating venues throughout Downtown Scranton. A free trolley shuttle service will help guests travel between locations from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.
Is there parking at the Scranton Jazz Festival?
Yes. Limited on-street parking is available throughout Downtown Scranton and at participating venues, and several public parking garages are located within walking distance of the festival locations.
Where can I eat during the Scranton Jazz Festival?
Downtown Scranton is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafés, pubs, and breweries. Many local restaurants also participate in the festival's Jazz Walk and Sunday Jazz Brunch, making it easy to enjoy great food while taking in live music.
Is the Scranton Jazz Festival family-friendly?
Yes, the festival welcomes music lovers of all ages. Families can enjoy performances during the Scranton Jazz Festival weekend while exploring Downtown Scranton.
