The North Carolina Jazz Festival is one of the nation’s longest-running traditional jazz festivals, bringing world-renowned musicians and jazz enthusiasts to Wilmington each year for a celebration of America’s original musical art form. Founded in 1980, the festival has built a reputation for showcasing premier traditional jazz performers from across the United States and around the world while preserving the rich heritage of classic jazz styles. Held annually in downtown Wilmington, the event attracts visitors from across the country who come to enjoy performances by internationally acclaimed artists in an intimate concert setting.
The multi-day festival features evening concerts, special showcase performances, jam sessions, and appearances by an all-star lineup of musicians representing a variety of traditional jazz styles. Audiences can enjoy everything from swing, Dixieland, and New Orleans jazz to blues-inspired performances and classic standards interpreted by some of the genre’s most respected artists. The festival’s format allows attendees to experience unique collaborations among musicians who often perform together exclusively for the event.
Beyond the performances, the festival is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional jazz through education and community engagement. Organizers support workshops, master classes, and other initiatives designed to inspire future generations of musicians and jazz lovers. Celebrating more than four decades of musical excellence, the North Carolina Jazz Festival remains one of Wilmington’s premier cultural events and a cherished tradition for both residents and visitors.
There’s an ocean of adventures waiting for visitors at the Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park. Featuring a full range of entertainment options including a water park, mini golf course, go karts, arcade, and so much more, veritably every visitor...