The Long Beach Jazz Festival is a celebration of music, culture, and community, drawing jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike to one of Southern California’s most iconic events. Held annually at the Rainbow Lagoon Park, the festival is a celebration of jazz’s rich history, featuring some of the genre’s most celebrated artists, alongside emerging talents. As the sun dips low over the Pacific Ocean, jazz fills the air, and a diverse crowd comes together to enjoy a weekend of rhythm, soul, and harmony.
The Long Beach Jazz Festival, which will take place this year from August 16-18, 2024, is a testament to the city’s rich musical heritage. Since its inception in 1986, the festival has been an essential part of the cultural fabric of Long Beach, showcasing the global appeal of jazz while honoring its African American roots. The festival’s lineup typically features legendary artists like George Benson, Herbie Hancock, and Al Jarreau, whose timeless sound is synonymous with jazz.
In addition to established stars, the festival is also dedicated to providing a platform for up-and-coming musicians. Emerging artists like saxophonist Keyon Harrold and trumpet virtuoso Bria Skonberg have captivated audiences with their unique styles, combining modern influences with the genre’s traditional sounds. “Jazz has always been about expression, evolution, and community,” says Harrold, whose performance at the festival last year received rave reviews. “It’s about telling a story, and that’s what this festival does – it tells the story of jazz and the city itself.”
For many festival-goers, the Long Beach Jazz Festival isn’t just about the music. It’s an opportunity to experience the sense of community that the event fosters. Attendees can be seen mingling in the sun, sampling local food vendors, and participating in cultural discussions. The festival offers more than just music; it’s a space for cultural exchange and social engagement. Long Beach resident, Carmen Thomas, has been attending the festival for over a decade. “It’s more than just a festival,” she says. “It’s a tradition, a gathering place where people of all backgrounds come together for the love of music.”
This sense of community is also reflected in the festival’s commitment to sustainability. As part of the festival’s environmental initiatives, organizers have implemented measures to reduce waste, encourage recycling, and promote eco-friendly food and beverage options. This focus on sustainability aligns with the broader movement in Southern California toward more conscious living, where lifestyle choices are closely linked to environmental responsibility.
The Long Beach Jazz Festival is a prime example of how music can transcend boundaries and create a lasting impact. With its strong tradition and commitment to both the art form and the community, it remains one of Southern California’s premier cultural events. As the festival continues to grow, it promises to remain a vital part of the region’s vibrant music scene for generations to come.
