DETROIT – The Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation unveiled enhanced safety procedures at Hart Plaza.
It expanded musical offerings at the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center at Wayne State University as part of its commitment to delivering a free, world-class jazz experience for all.
--> Detroit Jazz Festival returns Labor Day weekend with star-studded 2025 lineup
The Detroit Jazz Festival will be held Labor Day weekend at Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit, from Friday, Aug. 29, to Monday, Sept. 1.
Key Security Enhancements at Hart Plaza:
- New entry lanes to streamline check-in-
- Dedicated EXIT lane for smoother crowd flow
- Increased security screening for all guests (bag checks, scan lanes)
- Prohibited items enforcement, including outside alcohol
- New VIP entrance
Guest advisory: Limit bags for faster entry
Expanded Offerings at the Detroit Jazz Hall, located inside the Gretchen C. Valade Jazz Center at Wayne State University:
- High School Jazz Showcases: Saturday–Monday at 12 p.m.
- Midtown After Hours Specials: Friday–Sunday at 10:30 p.m.
- Additional security presence on-site
- Accessible parking via Wayne State campus and nearby lots
Festivalgoers are encouraged to review the full schedule at www.detroitjazzfest.org and enjoy a free livestream of the entire event at live.detroitjazzfest.org.
Keep It Free
Since 1980, the Detroit Jazz Festival has remained the world’s largest free jazz festival. With your support, it stays that way. Donate at onecau.se/_brfvb1.
2025 partial lineup
Friday, Aug. 29
- Special Performance by the 2025 Artist-In-Residence Jason Moran (TBA)
- Keyon Harrold’ Foreverland’
Saturday, Aug. 30
- Maria Schneider Orchestra
- Kenny Barron
- Hiromi’s Sonicwonder
- Chris Potter Trio featuring Matt Brewer and Kendrick Scott
- John Pizzarelli
- Endea Owens & The Cookout
- Herlin Riley Quartet
- Tatiana Eva-Marie & The Avalon Jazz Band
Sunday, Aug. 31
- Special performance by the 2025 Artist-In-Residence Jason Moran (TBA)
- Chucho Valdés and Paquito D’Rivera Reunion Sextet
- Branford Marsalis Quartet
- Connie Han Trio
- Omar Sosa Quarteto Americanos
- Lakecia Benjamin
- Walter Smith III Quartet
Monday, Sept. 1
- Special performance by the 2025 Artist-In-Residence Jason Moran (TBA)
- The John Scofield Trio featuring Vicente Archer and Bill Stewart with special guest Nicholas Payton
- Kris Davis
- James Francies Trio
- 2025 Kresge Eminent Artist Award Winner: Marion Hayden Legacy Ensemble with special guest Kamau Kenyatta
The Detroit Jazz Festival will be held in downtown Detroit from Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, coinciding with Labor Day weekend.