Salem Jazz and Soul Festival 2026

The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival returns to Salem Willows for its 19th year on Saturday, August 15, Protected content a full day of free, live music by the sea.

Set in the historic oceanfront Salem Willows park, the festival spreads out under the shade trees with the harbor as its backdrop. The ocean view and breeze is beautiful. Steps from the Willows' beloved arcade, flying-horses carousel, and seaside food stands. Bring a blanket or a beach chair, grab a bite, and settle in.

Main stage:
Lydia Harrell
The Nth Power
Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers Protected content nominee) close it Protected content
DJ Skotvoid spins between sets

30+ artisan vendors from across New England, a festival merch area, and — new for Protected content a Protected content Lawn up front. In honor of Salem's Protected content , take a tour through the history of jazz at the Willows, starting with Duke Ellington, who once performed on these very grounds.

The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival is recreating and renewing the vibrant jazz scene that began at the Salem Willows in the early 20th century, when Duke Ellington and other musicians from the Big Band era played at the seaside park in Salem, Mass. The festival builds on this rich jazz history — adding soul, blues, and funk to the mix — by offering a series of annual free concerts to the public, concluding with our annual main festival.

Public transportation from Boston: Newburyport/Rockport Line to Salem, MA, bikes are allowed. Ferry is also possible.