Detroit Jazz Festival 2025 — Labor Day Weekend
August 29 @ 11:00 am - September 1 @ 11:00 pm
Free
Detroit Jazz Festival 2025 returns August 29–September 1 for four days of free live music in downtown Detroit. Held at Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park, the festival features over 60 performances, late-night jam sessions, and educational events.
As the world’s largest free jazz festival, it brings together jazz legends, rising stars, and global talent for an unforgettable Labor Day weekend of music, culture, and skyline views.
🎶 Line-Up Highlights
Star performers include Grammy-winners and jazz legends:
- Jason Moran (Artist-in-Residence)
- Chucho Valdés & Paquito D’Rivera Reunion Sextet
- Branford Marsalis Quartet
- John Scofield Trio + Nicholas Payton
- Maria Schneider Orchestra
- Hiromi’s Sonicwonder
…plus dozens more across stages on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday (Full lineup & schedule →)
🎟️ VIP Passes & Premium Seating
Admission to Detroit Jazz Festival 2025 is free, but food, drinks, and vendor purchases may have a cost. For guests looking for upgraded access, VIP packages are available in limited quantities.
🌟 VIP Options
- Guardian Package – $800
Access to the Opening Night Party + VIP seating and hospitality all weekend (Sat–Mon) - Opening Night Party VIP – $200
Friday-only access with gourmet dinner, cocktails, and front-of-stage seating - Lincoln Gardens VIP Experience – $600
Includes VIP hospitality, food, 2 drinks/day, and exclusive seating areas (Sat–Mon)
Or purchase single-day access for $225 per day - Jazz Pazz – $360
Reserved front-of-stage seating only (Sat–Mon)
Or $125 per day
All passes are non-transferable. Booking fees apply.
🚗 Parking & Transit Options
- Paid parking available at Financial District, Greektown, One & Two Detroit Garages downtown
- Public transit (FAST bus, QLine, People Mover) conveniently connects to festival sites
detroitjazzfest.org - Bike valet is free at Hart Plaza
🎓 Education & Workshops
- Collegiate Combo Competition: Finals held Aug 1, winner performs at the festival
- J.C. Heard JazzWeek@Wayne: summer training culminating in student performances
🛑 What to Know Before You Go
- The festival is free and open to all—no tickets needed
- The event takes place rain or shine
- Accessible features: ADA restrooms, wheelchair rental, accessibility booths
detroitjazzfest.org - No camping or outside food restrictions (standard city rules apply)
- Late‑night “After Hours” shows in Midtown and Detroit Jazz Hall via Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center