Restrictions are lifting, the sun will be shining, and the organizers of the Havre de Grace Jazz and Blues Festival want you to know that MUSIC IS BACK. This weekend the Jazz and Blues Festival returns to the top of the Bay and we couldn’t be more excited.
The inaugural Jazz and Blues Festival took place in 2019 and was a huge success therefore festival organizers were devastated when they had to cancel in 2020 due to COVID 19. When Festival Chair Suzanne Chadwick was approached in February about planning a 2021 festival, she jumped at the chance. Even though the original festival took over ten months to plan, Chadwick and her team were able to secure a lineup of both International and local artists that are bound to delight any music lover. Chadwick, a resident of Havre de Grace, has a passion for bringing cultural experiences to Havre de Grace, therefore it was important to have a mixture of both paid and free concert experiences to ensure that all residents could enjoy the music. This year’s lineup consists of 13 different acts ranging from Latin Jazz, to Zydeco, to Roots Rock.
With its storied history of gangsters, bootleggers, and speak easies- Havre de Grace is the perfect setting for a celebration of the Blues. Each of the three concert venues showcases a different aspect of the city:
- The newly renovated State Theatre of Havre de Grace is an Art Deco style building that was recently renovated by owner Jared Noe. First opening in 1908, this theatre aired some of the most iconic movies ever seen before being shuttered in the early 1990’s. After a brief stint as an Evangelical Church, it was purchased two years ago and lovingly brought back to life. This is also the only indoor venue of the festival and will play host to Havre de Grace musician Saxl Rose when he performs with the Usual Suspects and Noah Pierre.
- The Integrity Real Estate “Locals” Stage is located on Pennington Avenue, in the Arts and Entertainment District. This stage will allow visitors and residents to enjoy local acts in the heart of Downtown Havre de Grace.
- The Wilburn Company “Headliners” Stage is in what is arguably the crown jewel of Havre de Grace, Concord Park. Ticket holders will be able to enjoy world class performances set against the breathtaking backdrop of Concord Point Light House and the Chesapeake Bay.
If you are coming into town for the Festival, be sure to check out some of the great local restaurants and stores. For a schedule of events and artist bios, and to purchase tickets visit Havre de Grace Jazz & Blues Festival | June 4-5, 2021 (hdgjazzbluesfest.org).