Boston’s summer calendar is packed with outdoor events, but few capture the city’s creative spirit quite like the Charles River Jazz Festival. Returning for its sixth year on August 8, the much-loved festival is making its biggest move yet, taking over the iconic Hatch Memorial Shell for a full day of live jazz, local food vendors, artists, and community celebration. Best of all, general admission is completely free, making it one of the easiest ways to enjoy jazz in Boston.
Who’s performing at the Charles River Jazz Festival?
The festival has built a reputation for championing the next generation of jazz, and this year’s lineup is no exception.
Ghost-Note
One of the biggest names on this year’s bill, Ghost-Note blends funk, jazz, hip hop and Afrobeat into explosive live performances. Led by Grammy-winning Snarky Puppy members Robert “Sput” Searight and Nate Werth, and features musicians who have performed and recorded with Prince, Kendrick Lamar, Herbie Hancock, Marcus Miller, Kirk Franklin and other icons. The group has become renowned for turning every set into a high-energy celebration.
Tyreek McDole
Fresh from winning the prestigious Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition, rising vocalist Tyreek McDole brings a rich, expressive voice rooted in jazz tradition while looking firmly toward its future.
Seba Molnar
Festival founder Seba Molnar also takes to the stage, showcasing the saxophone-led sound that helped inspire the creation of the Charles River Jazz Festival back in 2021. His performances balance adventurous improvisation with a deep sense of melody.
BT ALC Big Band
Boston’s own BT ALC Big Band brings the power of a full jazz orchestra to the festival, delivering bold brass arrangements, swinging rhythms, and contemporary compositions.
Roella Oloro
Blending jazz, soul and global influences, Roella Oloro is one of Boston’s most exciting emerging artists. Her genre-crossing style reflects the festival’s commitment to musical innovation.
Zahili Zamora
Cuban-born percussionist Zahili Zamora rounds out the lineup with rhythms inspired by Afro-Cuban traditions, adding another vibrant layer to the day’s celebrations.
More than just a music festival
What began in 2021 as a grassroots event welcoming just over 500 people has quickly become one of Boston’s fastest-growing cultural festivals. Created by local musicians to rebuild spaces for live jazz after the closure of several local venues, the festival has grown to welcome more than 5,000 attendees from across the United States and beyond.
Alongside the music, visitors can browse local artisan stalls in Vendor Row, grab lunch from food trucks, relax on the Esplanade, and enjoy a full day centred around community, creativity, and accessible live music.
Things to know before you go
The Charles River Jazz Festival takes place rain or shine on August 8, with the park opening at 11:30am before the first performances begin at noon. Admission is completely free, although advance registration is required. During registration, attendees also have the option to make a donation to help support local musicians and keep the festival free in future years.
Festival goers are encouraged to bring picnic blankets, low-profile chairs, sunscreen, soft coolers, and one sealed water bottle, while leashed dogs are also welcome. Throughout the day you’ll find food trucks and local vendors on-site, and those looking for a little extra comfort can opt for one of the festival’s VIP experiences.
Getting there is easiest via the MBTA, walking or cycling, as parking around the Hatch Memorial Shell is limited. If severe weather affects the event, updates will be shared on the festival’s social media channels and from the stage.
Other live music happening in Boston
If the Charles River Jazz Festival leaves you wanting more, Boston’s live music calendar has plenty to keep the rhythm going. The Jazz Room brings the spirit of 1920s New Orleans to Scullers Jazz Club with an intimate evening of classic standards and spontaneous improvisation, while Candlelight concerts continue to reimagine everything from jazz legends and soul classics to Taylor Swift and Michael Jackson in some of the city’s most beautiful venues. Beyond that, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and countless neighbourhood festivals ensure there’s always another unforgettable performance waiting just around the corner.
🎷 Charles River Jazz Festival
đź“… Saturday, August 8, 2026
⏰ Park opens 11:30am | Music from 12pm–8:30pm
đź“Ť Hatch Memorial Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston
🎟️ Free (registration and donations encouraged)
🚇 MBTA, walking, cycling and rideshare are recommended
🧺 Bring blankets, low chairs, soft coolers, sealed water, sunscreen, and leashed dogs
🌦️ Rain or shine; severe weather updates will be posted on festival social media
🍔 Also on-site are food trucks, Vendor Row, local artists, and optional VIP experiences
