Lansing JazzFest - August 1 & 2, 2008!
Entering its 14th year, the Lansing JazzFest is a two-day FREE music festival that brings national, regional, and local acts to an audience of roughly 15,000 people from across Michigan and nearby states. JazzFest's music truly is living music, history in the making. Each artist at the festival is asked to play an original composition, something that hasn't been played at any other festival.
This year's festival will take place Friday, August 1, and Saturday, August 2, 2008, in the streets of Old Town, surrounded by the best of the Capital City's art galleries as well as unique retail stores and grand architecture. Vendors line the streets offering ethnic food, beverages, art, clothing, and crafts, and nearby galleries and boutiques open their doors during festival hours.
Lansing JazzFest continues to grow thanks to the contributions of its sponsors and volunteers.
Location
The Lansing JazzFest takes place in the streets of Old Town Lansing, at the intersection of Turner St. and E. Grand River Ave.
2007's venue map:
Volunteering
Lansing JazzFest is in need of volunteers in order to continue as a fantastic, free community event.
Volunteering for JazzFest is a great way to go behind the scenes, meet new people, and have fun. If you're interested in volunteering, please e-mail volunteer@oldtownarts.org or call OTBADA at 517-371-4600.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really a free festival? Where might I end up spending money?
Yes, this is a free festival - where one can enjoy all performances without charge. Donations are encouraged to help the nonprofit organizers keep the festival free.
You will want to bring cash to purchase food, beverages, and merchandise from our vendors and local businesses. You may choose to pay for parking, as well.
Admission to the beverage tent is $5/day. This is a prime location to enjoy music from both main stages. The beverage tent is also the only festival vendor licensed to sell alcohol. Because of this, all entrants must show ID proving they are at least 21 years of age.
Where can I find parking?
Handicapped-designated parking will be available on the south side of E. Grand River near Turner. There is limited metered parking along Grand River Ave., free from 6 pm through the weekend. Adjacent businesses may offer lot parking for a fee - look for signs. Free unmetered parking is available on streets surrounding the festival area, including the west side of Old Town (connected to the festival area by the Grand River bridge).
What is seating like?
Chairs are provided in front of the stages (on paved surfaces), but we cannot guarantee to accommodate everyone who attends. Many choose to bring their own portable chairs.
What is your weather/cancellation policy?
The festival continues, rain or shine, with covered stages and some covered seating. If the forecast is discouraging, bring an umbrella. Of course, if severe weather would jeopardize persons or equipment, performances will be halted until such conditions have passed.
