From soloists to big bands and everything in between, this year's St. Charles Jazz Weekend is set to be an event that all music enthusiasts need to have circled on their calendars. Featuring over 40 performances at more than 20 local businesses, this celebration of jazz is bigger than ever, and we're here to tell you everything you need to know to make the most of the weekend!
Stay the Night
Photo 1 Courtesy of Brigette Burgman of Nomadic Soul Photography. Photo 2 Courtesy of @RachelKawate
You are not going to want to miss a second of this 4 day event, and if you're traveling from out of town to hear all the talented musicians, you're going to need to get a room to spend the night. The historic Hotel Baker is a wonderful choice, conveniently located in the heart of downtown St. Charles, walkable to many of the venues. There are also plenty of lodging options just the outside the downtown area, as well. Whatever your hotel needs are, there is an accommodation in St. Charles that will be perfect for you!
Check-In Challenge
Photo 1 Courtesy of C + E Photography
What if we told you that you'd have a chance to win dinner and a show (valued at $200) on us by just attending 3 Jazz Weekend Performances? Well, that's exactly what's taking place during the event! Entering is simple - first, download the Travel St. Charles App and create an account. Then, once Jazz Weekend begins, you'll be able to find the Jazz Weekend Check-In Challenge listed under the Challenges Tab. While you're attending a Jazz performance, check into that venue by hitting the "check-in" button. Once you've "check-into" three locations, you'll be entered to win! Three winners will be chosen and will be notified via email on September 16th. Click below to learn more.
Performances
Photo 1 Courtesy of C + E Photography
Now, let's talk a little bit about some of the performances at this year's event. With more performances than ever before at numerous local businesses in town, you can be sure that this weekend will be jam-packed with first-class jazz! While most of the performances are free, it is important to note that some do require the purchase of tickets. Be sure to check with the venue beforehand!
Photos Courtesy of Drew Pertl Fine Art Photography
While there are many incredible local businesses hosting performances this weekend, make sure to come out to the newly-renovated 1st Street Plaza for even more jazz! On Saturday, you'll have the opportunity to listen to some very talented young musicians with the St. Charles High School Jazz Workshops! At 12pm-12:45pm, the St. Charles North Jazz Workshop will be performing with special guest, Derrick Gardener! Following that performance will be the St. Charles East Jazz Workshop playing alongside special guest Jimmy Farace!
Then, make sure to come back on Sunday for a fantastic big band experience! Chicago group, The Diego Rodriguez Big Band will be wowing listeners on the plaza from 12pm-2pm, the perfect way to kick-off the final day of Jazz Weekend! While there will be seating on the 1st Street Plaza, it's never a bad idea to bring your own chair to ensure a seat!
Where Is Your Favorite Place to Listen to Live Music?
Community Spaces
Restaurants/Breweries
Shops
Theatres
Sales & Specials
While you're enjoying all the jazz around town, be sure to take advantage of sales & specials that businesses are having in honor of the event! Jazz music and swing dancing go hand-in-hand, so The Dance Lab is offering a FREE swing group class that is open to the public on Thursday, September 12th at 7pm! This is a great way to celebrate the spirit of Jazz Weekend, all while learning or refining a new skill!
If it's shopping your after at this year's Jazz Weekend, then you're in luck! The Pep Line will be having their "jazzy sale" that weekend, offering 15% off! And on Friday, you can enjoy music from Andy Schlinder and food from Le Truff Noir from 4pm-8pm. Over at trend + relic, you can discover tons of great deals at their Tent Sale on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-5pm, along with food and live jazz music from Samuel Wyatt and the Mike Horton Quartet, as well!
Can't contain your excitement for this year's Jazz Weekend? Take a look at some photos from last years event below!
Photos Courtesy of C + E Photography
In search of more things to do around St. Charles while your in town for Jazz Weekend? Our FREE Travel St. Charles App is a fantastic resource to this city, making finding shopping, dining, and events a breeze. Click above to learn more.