Festival Info
The Duck Jazz Festival Presented by PNC takes place in the Town of Duck annually on Columbus Day weekend. Enjoy highlights from the 2017 festival in this short highlight reel produced by Baldwin Video Productions.
In 2017, participants began the weekend with a Concert on the Green style event, Saturday, October 7, 2017 from 4 – 6 p.m. Then returned tot he park on Sunday, October 8, 2017, to enjoy a full day of music during this free, non-ticketed festival showcasing national, regional and local jazz musicians on two stages. Gates opened at 10:00 a.m. with live music starting at 11:00 a.m. and food and soft drinks were available for purchase from Duck eateries, Sooey’s BBQ & Rib Shack, Aqua Restaurant and Sunset Grille & Raw Bar. Chairs were available for rent on-site from Ocean Atlantic Rentals. The festival takes place rain or shine. Attendees are invited to bring food, coolers, chairs, blankets and well-behaved dogs.
This year jazz-related events leading up to the main event included a movie on the Green, live music and special activities taking place events around town at local Duck businesses. For event updates, follow Duck Jazz Festival on Facebook and Twitter, and use #duckjazz on your posts and pictures.
Click here to download our 2017 Jazz Festival Brochure.
Friday, October 6, 2017
Movie on the Green
With community partner, Children @ Play, The Town of Duck will host an outdoor movie for the community on Friday, October 6 at dusk. This year’s film, The Muppet Movie, features a soundtrack written by Paul Williams and jazz pianist Kenny Ascher. Bring your blankets, chairs, and coolers for this family friendly free event. Popcorn and concessions will be available for purchase from Children @ Play at the event.
Saturday, October 7, 2017
Mint Julep Jazz Band
Concert on the Green and Swing Lesson
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
The Duck Jazz Festival opens with live music on the Green from the Mint Julep Jazz Band who bring their vintage sound to us from Durham North Carolina. Enjoy this Concert on the Green with a twist which will include a mix of music, art and dance. In between sets you are invited to participate in a free East Coast Swing lesson led by Mint Julep Jazz Band’s own Laura Windley and Keenan McKenzie. This short lesson will introduce a few basics so you’ll be ready to dance the night away and swing through a full day of jazz on the Duck Town Green on Sunday!
Saturday’s festivities will also feature five local artists who will work at easels on either side of the stage and will create works of art during the event. Artists include Fred Vallade, Susan Van Gieson, Angel Fritz, Gloria Coker and Eric Brockmyre. Learn more about the participating artists here.
Saturday’s celebration of music, art and dance opens the Duck Jazz Festival and is a great opportunity to help us say Happy 50th Anniversary to the North Carolina Arts Council, who’s championed North Carolina arts for 50 years. Learn about their dynamic work here.
Live Jam at the Blue Point
Approximately 7:30 p.m.
Enjoy live jazz along the sound, and catch festival musicians participating in an informal live jam at the Blue Point. Contact the restaurant directly for reservations and additional information.
Sunday, October 8, 2017
On Sunday, October 8, 2017, enjoy a free, non-ticketed, day-long festival showcasing national, regional and local jazz musicians on two stages. Learn more about this year’s musicians by reading their band bios.
Gates open at 10:00 a.m., with live music starting at 11:00 a.m. Food and soft drinks will be available on-site for purchase. Chairs will be available to rent. The festival will take place rain or shine. Attendees are invited to bring food, coolers, chairs, blankets, and well-behaved dogs.
10:00 a.m. Gates Open
Main Stage:
11:00 AM Robert Jospé Express Trio
1:00 PM The Rad Trads
3:00 PM Marquis Hill Blacktet
5:15 PM Davina & The Vagabonds
Amphitheater Stage:
12:00 PM Second Marine Aircraft Wing Jazz Ensemble
2:00 PM “The Journey of the Clave from Africa to the Americas” by Robert Jospé Express Trio
4:30 PM First Flight High School Jazz Band
*Please note, Frank Vignola, originally scheduled for Saturday, October 7, had to cancel due to personal reasons.
Monday, October 9, 2017
Duck Jazz Festival Workshop
Held primarily for Dare County High School and Middle School jazz band and chorus students, the workshop will take place at First Flight High School Auditorium and will be led by The Rad Trads.
Jazz-Themed Events throughout Duck Village
Area Duck Businesses participate with jazz-related live music events and promotions surrounding the Jazz Festival. Learn more about scheduled events by visiting the Events Around Town page closer to October.
