ASBURY PARK – The city and the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation (JSJBF) are presenting the 24th annual Asbury Park Jazzfest on June 30 and July 1.
A deep rooted community tradition that started in 1989 by gathering local jazz musicians together once a year has expanded into a two-day, 15-band, nationally recognized festival that is keeping true to its community roots by providing top jazz and blues acts under the trees at Sunset Park for free.
The JSJBF has booked the Asbury Park High School Jazz Band to open Saturday’s music lineup followed by Rod Williams, Bell Bottom Blues, Slim Chance & The Gamblers, JazzFunction, Deb Callahan and the Gas House Gorillas as the headlining act.
Although Saturday’s lineup will be tough to beat, Sunday’s lineup will be just as amazing. Those planning to attend are asked to bring beach blankets, lawn chairs and dancing shoes as the Rock N Roll Chorus will open up with their amazing “no instruments, just voices” singing, followed by Dennis Gruenling, Jerry Topinka, The Voodudes, Roger Girke Band and the final headlining act of the weekend, Ray Rodriguez Y Swing Sabroso.
In addition to jazz, blues and Latin sounds filling the air, the aroma of food from vendors and the ice cold beer and wine will add to the outdoor festival atmosphere. There will also be artists and crafters on hand for those who wish to do a little shopping while at the festival.
Move for Hunger will be hosting a food donation at the Jazzfest, collecting donations for the local food bank. Names of those who donate will be entered to win tickets to the upcoming WRATfest. Shake the Lake or a skybox to a Lakewood Blueclaws home game.
Jazzfest sponsors include the City of Asbury Park, Land Rover of Monmouth, Coors Light, Barefoot Wine, World Volkswagen, Wells Fargo, The Lakewood Blue Claws, The Garden State Menu, The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and The Breeze.
