John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival Marks 14th Year with Acclaimed Artists in High Point

High Point, NC – The John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival is set to celebrate its 14th anniversary this Labor Day weekend, August 30-31, 2025, at the picturesque Oak Hollow Festival Park. This highly anticipated music event honors the indelible legacy of jazz titan John Coltrane in the very city where his formative musical journey began.

A Celebration of Coltrane’s Roots and Musical Influence

The festival, a cornerstone of the region’s cultural calendar, pays tribute to John Coltrane, a musician whose profound influence reshaped the landscape of jazz and extended into blues, R&B, rock, and hip-hop. High Point, North Carolina, holds a special place in Coltrane’s history, as it was here that he first learned to play the saxophone. The festival’s mission is to embody the spirit of improvisation, innovation, and excitement that characterized Coltrane’s own artistry, bringing together world-class musicians and enthusiasts alike.

The Friends of John Coltrane, Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization, established the festival. Its origins can be traced back to a local effort in 2004 to commission and erect a statue commemorating Coltrane, culminating in the first festival in 2011. Named “One Of The Best Jazz Festivals In The U.S.” by Jazz Observer, the event has consistently drawn a growing audience and cemented its reputation as a premier destination for Labor Day weekend celebrations.

A Stellar Lineup for the 14th Annual Event

This year’s festival promises an exceptional array of talent, featuring multiple Grammy Award-winning artists. Saturday, August 30, will kick off with the electrifying sounds of Snarky Puppy, a five-time Grammy Award-winning collective known for their innovative blend of jazz, funk, and world music. Also gracing the Saturday stage is Meshell Ndegeocello, a visionary three-time Grammy Award-winning artist celebrated for her genre-bending work and fearless creativity.

The celebration continues on Sunday, August 31, with a performance by Stanley Clarke, a four-time Grammy Award-winning bassist renowned for his virtuosity and expansive musical explorations. A special highlight will be the “From Withers to Wonder” tribute, a captivating performance honoring the timeless genius of Bill Withers and Stevie Wonder. This unique ensemble includes six-time Grammy® nominee Nnenna Freelon, acclaimed vocalist Clint Holmes, and the ten-time Grammy® Award-winning a cappella group Take 6.

Attendees can also look forward to performances from a diverse range of esteemed musicians, including Peter White, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Ruthie Foster, Lizz Wright, The Headhunters, and The Baylor Project. Bassist and educator John Brown will lead the NC Coltrane All-Star Band, featuring special guest vocalist José James, adding another layer of musical depth to the weekend’s offerings.

An Immersive Festival Experience

Oak Hollow Festival Park provides a serene backdrop for the festival, with its lake and natural surroundings enhancing the overall ambiance. Beyond the music, festival-goers can explore High Point, John Coltrane’s childhood city, with curated itineraries that highlight local attractions, including the significant John Coltrane Statue. The event also offers camping facilities for those wishing to immerse themselves fully in the weekend’s festivities. Tickets for the 14th Annual John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival are available for purchase, with a 2-Day General Admission priced at $149, promising a weekend filled with exceptional music and community spirit.

This milestone event continues to be a testament to the enduring power of music and the profound legacy of John Coltrane, offering a vibrant platform for artistic expression and cultural connection.