ColaJazz Fest returning to downtown Columbia

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The sixth annual ColaJazz Fest weekend will return to Columbia this fall Saturday, Sept. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 1. This year’s lineup includes local and national jazz musicians including Fred Wesley, Houston Person, Wycliffe Gordon, Mitch Butler and more. 

The event is sponsored by the ColaJazz Foundation.

“ColaJazz is excited to return to its festival roots on Main Street,” said Mark Rapp, the Foundation’s executive director. “This festival celebrates our local musicians, brings in national talent and continues establishing Columbia as a premier jazz destination.”

The Gala on Saturday, Sept. 30 will run from 6 to 10 p.m., with intimate concerts inside the main lobby of the South Carolina State Museum. Tickets are $100 per person for general admission with opportunities to purchase tables for four, six and eight people. They are available online. The marquee concert, “Main Street Jazz Fest,” will run from 3 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1 on Main Street and feature numerous bands food trucks and more. These tickets are $20 per person for general admission, with VIP tables for groups of six, also available online.

“The ColaJazz Fest has become a cherished event that showcases our city's rich musical heritage and attracts music enthusiasts from all around,” said Matt Kennell, president and CEO of The Main Street District. “The 2023 ColaJazz Fest will undoubtedly enhance the cultural vibrancy and economic growth of our city.”

The ColaJazz Foundation is dedicated to growing, supporting and promoting jazz in the Midlands through events, education, recordings, resources and advocacy in order to create a thriving culturally rich community.