Salem Jazz and Soul Festival 2026
The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival returns to Salem Willows for its 19th year on Saturday, August 15, 2026 — a full day of free, live music by the sea, 11 AM to 7 PM.
Set in the historic oceanfront Salem Willows park, the festival spreads out under the shade trees with the harbor as its backdrop — steps from the Willows' beloved arcade, flying-horses carousel, and seaside food stands (yes, the popcorn and chop suey sandwiches). Bring a blanket or a beach chair, grab a bite, and settle in.
Main stage
10:45 — Jesse Ciarmataro opens with "America the Beautiful"
11:00 — Salem High School Jazz Band
12:30 — Wood & Bone
2:00 — Lydia Harrell
3:30 — The Nth Power
5:30 — Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers (2024 GRAMMY nominee) close it out
All day — DJ Skotvoid spins between sets
Education Tent — free, all-ages workshops all day:
Noon — Lydia Harrell: the magic of improvisation
1:30 — Nate Edgar (The Nth Power): the world of rhythm
3:00 — Dwayne Dopsie: zydeco music & culture
5:00 — Percussion & flute with Shira Moss, Steve Tapper & the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Salem
All day — an open drum & percussion jam. No experience needed. Bring the kids.
Around the grounds: 30+ artisan vendors from across New England, a festival merch area, and — new for 2026 — a 21+ Mercy Lawn up front. In honor of Salem's 400+ commemoration, take a tour through the history of jazz at the Willows, starting with Duke Ellington, who once performed on these very grounds.
The Salem Jazz and Soul Festival is a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Since 2007, we've channeled more than $80,000 into North Shore music education — and every year, we keep this festival free for everyone.
Free and open to all, rain or shine. Help keep it going: volunteer at salemjazzsoul.org/volunteers or donate at salemjazzsoul.org/donate.
See you at the Willows.