The Jazz & Rib Fest in Columbus is an annual event that takes place in July at the downtown Riverfront. It is a celebration of two of America’s favorite cultural traditions: jazz music and BBQ ribs. The event attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy live music, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere. This year’s event will take place from July 21 – July 23. Hours for July 21 and 22 are 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., while the 23rd is from 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
The lowdown on how the festival works
The Jazz & Rib Fest is a three-day event that features a wide range of jazz musicians and bands, including both local and national acts. The lineup typically includes a mix of traditional and contemporary jazz, with something for every fan of the genre. Past headliners include the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, the Dirty Dozen Brass Band and the Kenny Garrett Quintet, to name a few.
In addition to the music, the event also features a variety of BBQ ribs from top rib vendors from around the country – from Austin’s Texas Lightning BBQ to the Chicago Barbeque Company to the Carolina Rib King.
The event is held outdoors, with multiple stages set up for the music and food vendors scattered throughout the festival grounds. Admission is free, but the food and parking, obviously, is not. Beverage sponsors include Pepsi and Jackie O’s brewery from Athens, Ohio.
Last year’s event also had food specials selling between $10-$40, see here for more details.
One of the highlights of the Jazz & Rib Fest is the rib competition, which takes place on the final day of the event. Rib vendors from around the country compete for the title of “Best Barbeque,” with a panel of judges selecting the winners. In addition to the competition, there are also cooking demonstrations and other activities related to BBQ and grilling.
The Jazz & Rib Fest is not just about the music and food, however. The event also features a variety of other activities and attractions, including a kids’ zone with rides and games, a marketplace with artisanal crafts and other goods, and a beer garden for adults to enjoy a refreshing drink. There is also a variety of other food vendors offering a wide range of cuisines, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the things that makes the Jazz & Rib Fest such a popular event is the atmosphere. The event is known for its laid-back, family-friendly vibe, with something for everyone to enjoy. The music, food, and other attractions all contribute to a festive and enjoyable atmosphere that keeps people coming back year after year.
In addition to being a fun and entertaining event, the Jazz & Rib Fest also has a charitable component. A portion of the proceeds from the event are donated to local non-profit organizations, helping to support important causes in the community.
A Brief History of the Jazz & Rib Fest
The festival has been around forever – its roots dating back to 1979.
“In 1979, Music in the Air launched Jazz in July, a series presenting jazz through music, film and visual arts at various City of Columbus parks and facilities. Several activities were hosted at the Cultural Arts Center including a Jazz Film Festival and an art exhibit entitled, “Jazz Totems… An Affirmation of Life.” Weekly lunchtime performances were held in the Cultural Arts Center courtyard and featured the newly formed Jazz Arts Group. This was the foundation for what is now the Jazz & Rib Fest – Columbus’ largest free outdoor music festival and one of the nation’s largest rib cook-offs,” reads the event’s website.
A full timeline of the festival’s evolution can be found there as well.
Overall, the Jazz & Rib Fest is a beloved annual tradition in Columbus, attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy great music, delicious food, and a festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of jazz music, BBQ ribs, or just looking for a fun and unique way to spend a summer weekend, the Jazz & Rib Fest is definitely worth checking out.
There’s also a Vegan Jazz & Ribs Fest, too
Entering its fifth year, there is also a vegan counterpart hosted around the same time by a separate group for those who steer clear from meat. Check out information from last year’s event here.
So, whatever your jam is – jazz, ribs, or even vegan ribs – Columbus has you covered. Bring your friends and the whole family, and most importantly – make sure that everyone shows up on an empty stomach!