NYC Winter Jazzfest is a dynamic catalyst for the future of jazz, showcasing a wide spectrum of innovative artists while championing the music’s role as a force for cultural and social change. Now over two decades strong, the festival is a vital platform for emerging talent, offering artists meaningful exposure through alignment with the APAP conference and access to a global network of industry professionals who attend every year.

With a deep commitment to expanding jazz’s audience, Winter Jazzfest creates an inclusive atmosphere welcoming younger listeners and those from diverse musical backgrounds, reflecting the genre’s ever-evolving identity. Honoring the tradition of jazz as protest music and music reflecting the greater social context of society, the festival seeks to amplify artists who address messages of social justice, wellness, and community building in their music—demonstrating how music can build community, healing, and societal progress on and off the stage.

Since its founding in 2005, Winter Jazzfest has cemented a reputation as a hotbed of cultural discovery, presenting new and exciting sounds and scenes throughout New York.  The festival has proudly showcased headline artists very early in their careers including Jon Batiste, Robert Glasper, Gregory Porter, Samara Joy, Esperanza Spalding, Thundercat, Kamasi Washington, and others.

The music marathon that takes place during the festival’s Friday and Saturday nights has, in particular, become recognized as a crucial, unique New York nightlife offering, giving audiences full access to all participating venues from early evening, deep into the wee wee hours.