One of the most celebrated music events in the world is just weeks away. The 68th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival will take over the Monterey County Fairgrounds from Sept. 26–28, bringing with it an all-star lineup, historic performances and a celebration of jazz past, present and future.
This year’s festival features 79 performances across five stages, with powerhouse names like Ledisi, Christian McBride, Pete Escovedo, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Dianne Reeves, Delfeayo Marsalis, Gregory Porter, and many more slated to perform on the iconic Jimmy Lyons Stage.
In keeping with the festival’s legacy, the 2025 lineup delivers both legendary icons and rising stars.
Cory Wong
Friday’s Arena shows will spotlight Gregory Porter and Christian McBride & Ursa Major, while Saturday’s lineup includes Ledisi, Dianne Reeves, Keyon Harrold, Cory Wong, and Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra. Sunday wraps with a grand finale: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Echoes of an Era (featuring Lisa Fischer, Javon Jackson, Lenny White and others), and a special commissioned performance by pianist Christian Sands.
Beyond the Arena, performances will span four additional stages, including jazz heavyweights like Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble, Gunhild Carling, Carmen Lundy, Benny Green, and Sullivan Fortner Trio, alongside vibrant sets from student and university ensembles.
Education remains central to the Monterey Jazz Festival’s mission. This year, the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, directed by Gerald Clayton, and the Next Generation Women in Jazz Combo, led by Katie Thiroux, will both take the stage. The Texas Southern University Gospel Choir and the North Carolina Central University Jazz Ensemble, winners of the festival’s HBCU Challenge, will also return.
“We’re committed to bringing our audience the jazz greats they know and love, while also introducing new and exciting artists. And we’re keeping it affordable—we haven’t raised most of our ticket prices in two years,” said Managing Director Bobbie Young, a 10-year veteran of the organization.
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Prices range from $60 single-day Grounds passes to $430 for 3-Day Arena Packages. Military and student discounts are available. For more information, go online at www.montereyjazz.org.
TOP PHOTO: Christian McBride and Ursa Major