This past weekend marked the 41st annual Jazz’SAlive, hosted at Civic Park at Hemisphere in downtown San Antonio. Akin to the years before, the celebration of music was filled to the brim with various talented artists exploring the boundaries of jazz. The festival takes place annually in the jazz hub that is San Antonio, providing a fabulous free event to residents and tourists alike. On Sept. 27 and 28, attendees had the opportunity to listen to over 13 artists while surrounded by amazing food and culture in the heart of the city.
“The vibrant streets of San Antonio are set to echo with the lively melodies and robust rhythms of jazz as the annual Jazz’SAlive Festival returns for its 41st year,” said Cecilia Garcia, Jazz’SAlive event chair and board member of the San Antonio Parks Foundation, in preparation for the event.
With a tradition that began in 1984, the festival boasts two stages for renowned artists to perform from. Hosted by the San Antonio Parks Foundation and the City of San Antonio, Jazz’SAlive is one of the largest free jazz festivals in the U.S. Previously taking place in Travis Park, 2024 marks the second installment held at the growing Civic Park. Swing, fusion, smooth jazz and more are all present with musical genius from around the globe. The highlights of the lineup include award-winning musician/composer and four-time Grammy nominee Patrice Rushen, the youngest bandleader to ever win a Grammy Steven Feifke and the USAF Band of the West, “Jazz Group of the Year” nominee The Lao Tizer Band, the local Dirty River Jazz Band, and many more. There is never a shortage of talent present at Jazz’SAlive.
Despite the surrounding construction at Civic Park, the venue was filled to the brim with casual jazz listeners and the most dedicated of enthusiasts. The vast green lawn provided ample seating with amazing views of the two stages against the backdrop of downtown San Antonio. Attendees had the option of free entry or $60 VIP day passes, which granted access to premium front-of-stage seating, a cash bar and cocktail service. The event also provided a wide array of booths, home to local small businesses and food vendors.
The artists, sponsors and community behind events like these continue to cultivate an amazing culture in San Antonio. With a jam-packed 41st year of Jazz’SAlive behind us, the tradition of jazz is as strong as ever. Yet, the live jazz does not have to stop there. Jazz enjoyers and locals, make sure to check out Trinity University’s KRTU Jazz Calendar for an extensive overview of upcoming live jazz events in San Antonio.
