Montclair Jazz Fest 2017: Celebrate Summer With Free Shows, Food

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Essex County’s jazziest celebration – the Montclair Jazz Fest - will return to Nishuane Park on Saturday, Aug. 12 from noon to 9 p.m.

The free, “no tickets required” festival’s 2017 incarnation will include performances from Montclair Jazz Festival Artistic director and bassist extraordinaire Christian McBride, as well as Dee Dee Bridgewater & Memphis Soulphony, the Cyrus Chestnut Trio, Louis Prima Jr. and the Witnesses, Ted Chubb Band, the Jazz House Collective and The Centennial Project.

Actor S. Epatha Merkerson will serve as mistress of ceremonies this year, organizers stated.

The festival will also include a performance from the award-winning JAZZ HOUSE KiDS student ensembles and vocal groups, kid-friendly food vendors and music-related story books read by festival headliners.

For the thirsty, there will be a beer garden sponsored by North Coast Brewing Co., which donates 100% of the proceeds to support the JAZZ HOUSE KiDS Music + Education Fund.

"We are proud that the Montclair Jazz Fest has metamorphosed into one of the largest and greatest free summer events in New Jersey," said Melissa Walker, president and founder of JAZZ HOUSE KiDS. "Along with the Montclair Film Festival in the spring, the Montclair Jazz Fest has become part of the fabric of our community and a world-class event, solidifying this town's standing as a thriving arts and cultural destination all year round.

Learn more about the 2017 festival and see a full entertainment lineup here.

Send local news tips, photos and press releases to eric.kiefer@patch.com

Photos: Montclair Jazz Festival, 2016

Don’t forget to visit the Patch Montclair Facebook page here.