CULTURE

Springfield Hosts Two-Day Free Jazz And Roots Festival

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SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, produced by nonprofit Blues to Green, began Friday, July 10, and continued Saturday, July 11, returning to historic Court Square in downtown Springfield. The free festival showcased a world-class lineup rooted in the African diaspora and global traditions, with national acts such as New Orleans funk group Dumpstaphunk, Cuban pianist Omar Sosa, Trinidad-born trumpeter Etienne Charles's Gullah Roots, Grammy-winning pianist Zaccai Curtis, and Puerto Rican artist David Rivera y La Bámbula alongside immigrant-led ensemble All the Rivers, Uganda-rooted Zikina and local favorites Malado!, Chestina Thrower and Dan Gabel and the Gabeltones. Organizers emphasized that the music remains free and open to everyone and announced the launch of the Jazz Club, a sustaining membership program with levels starting at $100 to directly support the free festival, youth arts engagement and the Arts for Racial & Climate Justice storytelling initiative. Members at the $250 level and above gain access to a Jazz Club Lounge during the festival weekend. Kristin Neville, executive director of Blues to Green, said the festival is a vital cultural anchor for Springfield, and organizers encouraged community participation through memberships, volunteering, vendor opportunities and local business sponsorships. For artist profiles and Jazz Club registration, visit springfieldjazzfest.com.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Blues to Green was co-founded by Kristin Neville and inspired by Charles Neville's legacy.
The Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival developed into an annual, free community event produced by Blues to Green.
Organizers announced the 2026 lineup featuring national and local artists for a July weekend in Court Square.
The festival took place on July 10 and July 11, 2026, with multiple stages, vendors, and an art activity tent.
Post-event, organizers emphasized sustaining music and cultural programming through donations and community support.

Why This Matters to You

The Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival is more than just a music event. It's a cultural anchor for Springfield, bringing together diverse artists and communities. You can support this free festival and its youth arts programs by joining the Jazz Club. Visit springfieldjazzfest.com for details.

The Bottom Line

This festival is a celebration of global traditions and local talent. It's also a call to action for community support. If you love music and believe in the power of arts to bridge racial and cultural divides, consider becoming a Jazz Club member. Worth forwarding if you know a music lover in Springfield.