2025 MAIN STREET JAZZ FEST by COLAJAZZ
The Main Street Jazz Fest presented by the award-winning ColaJazz Foundation (ColaJazz), returns May 10 – 11, bringing world-class jazz, community and culture to the heart of the city. Thanks to support from the City of Columbia, Richland County, Intramed Plus, Prisma Health, Sims Music, SC Arts Commission, South State Bank, and many other local sponsors, the outdoor festival is FREE to all attendees on May 10.
On Saturday, May 10, the free outdoor festival is back on the 1700 block of Main Street from 2 – 9 p.m., featuring multiple bands, food trucks, and more. On Sunday, May 11, an epic double bill hits the Koger Center for the Arts starting at 6 p.m.
"We are thrilled to welcome everyone back to our annual ColaJazz Fest," says Mark Rapp, Executive Director of ColaJazz. "This year's lineup is mind blowing, showcasing jazz legends alongside rising stars. We're excited for Columbia to experience this!"
Saturday’s outdoor concert series kicks off at 2 p.m. with the University of South Carolina’s Left Bank Big Band, showcasing Columbia’s talented young musicians swinging through classic big-band favorites. At 3:30 p.m. world-renown guitarist and oud player, Amos Hoffman, takes the stage. Smooth jazz sensation Jessy J takes the stage at 5 p.m. Backed by local favorite Rod Foster & Company, Jessy J’s sultry saxophone will be a crowd favorite. At 6:30 p.m. two-time Latin Grammy and Juno Award-winning Alex Cuba blends Cuban soul with contemporary jazz.
Closing the night at 8 p.m. with a dynamic New Orleans jazz experience is Alphonso Horne and the Gotham Kings. Known for their explosive performances, the Gotham Kings deliver high-energy brass band excitement, earning rave reviews from the New York Times as "the essence of jazz entertainment."
MAY 10TH VIP UPGRADE
VIP options are available for the outdoor concert series on May 10. VIP ticket holders receive dedicated seating, exclusive access to an Ambrosia Taverna buffet, air-conditioned restrooms, a relaxing VIP lounge, and much more. GO VIP!
On Sunday, May 11, the 2025 ColaJazz Fest continues indoors at the Koger Center for the Arts with a groundbreaking double bill. At 6 p.m., Tia Fuller, whose saxophone sound brought Pixar’s "Soul" character Dorothea Williams to life, will enchant listeners with her exceptional artistry. At 7:30 p.m., NEA Jazz Master Kenny Garrett, acclaimed for his innovative compositions and Grammy-winning performances, presents his celebrated "Sounds of the Ancestors" project.
For more information and to purchase VIP tickets, visit https://colajazzfest.com/.
2025 ColaJazz Fest Schedule
(FREE) Saturday, May 10, 1700 Block of Main Street, Columbia, SC
2 p.m. — Left Bank Big Band
3:30 p.m. — Amos Hoffman
5 p.m. — Jessy J featuring Rod Foster & Company
6:30 p.m. — Alex Cuba
8 p.m. — Alphonso Horne and the Gotham Kings
Sunday, May 11, Koger Center for the Arts, Columbia, SC
6 p.m. — Tia Fuller Band
7:30 p.m. — Kenny Garrett and the Sounds of the Ancestors
About the ColaJazz Foundation
Founded in 2014 by Mark Rapp, the ColaJazz Foundation (ColaJazz) is dedicated to growing, supporting and promoting jazz in the Midlands through events, education, recordings, resources and advocacy. A Governor Award-winning, community-minded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ColaJazz brings world-renowned jazz educators and performers face to face with students and the public offering diverse and exciting experiences. For more information, visit https://colajazz.com/.
