DC JazzFest at The Wharf | September 2026
The 22nd DC Jazz Festival runs September 2–6, 2026 at The Wharf and 20+ city venues. NEA Jazz Masters, world-class musicians, free and ticketed programming.
The DC Jazz Festival was founded in 2004 by jazz producer Charles Fishman and attorney Stephanie Peters, launching its first annual festival in 2005. What began as a focused outdoor gathering has grown into a 5-day, 20-venue citywide event anchored at The Wharf, recognized as one of the major jazz events on the American cultural calendar — not for its scale alone, but for the curatorial seriousness that shapes each year's lineup.
The 22nd DC JazzFest runs September 2–6, 2026, anchored at The Wharf's outdoor stages on the Potomac — 20+ venues across the city, with headliners Dee Dee Bridgewater, Joshua Redman, Cory Henry, and Nate Smith. Ticketed and free outdoor programming both available.
The DC JazzFest runs five days each September anchored at The Wharf on the Potomac — 20-plus venues across the city, with ticketed headline performances and free outdoor programming. The 2026 edition runs September 2–6.
The 22nd DC Jazz Festival runs September 2–6, 2026 at The Wharf and 20+ city venues. NEA Jazz Masters, world-class musicians, free and ticketed programming.
At a glance
- Address
- The Wharf, 760 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, Washington, DC
- Price range
- $$
- Cuisine
- Experience, Curated, Bespoke
- Phone
- (202) 783-0360
Common questions
What kind of venue is DC JazzFest at The Wharf?
Five September Days That Define DC's Cultural Ambition
Where is DC JazzFest at The Wharf located?
Located in Washington DC. See contact details for the full address and neighborhood.
Do they accept reservations?
Advance reservations are required. Times and pricing are listed on the venue's booking page.
What is the dress code?
Smart casual. The venue does not enforce a strict dress code.
Does the venue accommodate dietary restrictions or accessibility needs?
Most dietary restrictions and accessibility requests can be accommodated with advance notice. Please notify the venue when booking so the team can prepare.