GRandJazzFest, taking place August 16 and 17, 2014, in Rosa Parks Circle, downtown Grand Rapids, brings together notable jazz performers and highlights up-and-coming artists. There is no admission fee. This year's festival showcases trumpeter and vocalist Rick Braun as the Saturday night headliner. Braun has toured and recorded with Rod Stewart, War, Sade, Tina Turner, Natalie Cole, and Tom Petty.
A wide and encompassing range of jazz artists and acts round out the festival, including Sunday night headliner Alexander Zonjic, the Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra with Edye Evans Hyde, the Cooper Hay Van Lente Group, Grupo Ayé, In The Tradition, Matt Marshak, Evidence Jazz Group, Demetrius "Krayon" Nabors, and the Robert Hurst Quintet.
Highlighted as a family-friendly event, the festival is also a celebration of Grand Rapids' great downtown area. Restaurants within walking distance include San Chez Tapas Bistro, Tre Cugini, Mojo's Dueling Piano Bar, Buffalo Wild Wings, Founder's Brewing Company, Bartertown Diner, Woods Lounge, and many other tempting eateries, and there will also be a host of food trucks on site.
For specific information about the schedule, parking, and more, click here.
