Charles River Jazz Festival moves to the Hatch Shell with a free concert headlined by Ghost-Note
The Charles River Jazz Festival returns to the Hatch Memorial Shell on Aug. 8 with Ghost-Note, two stages, free admission, and a full day of live music on the Esplanade.
Details
Charles River Jazz Festival
Saturday, Aug. 8pm
Hatch Memorial Shell
Free tickets with RSVP + VIP tix available
https://blacksoulsummer.com/events/charlesriverjazzfestival-aug8/
The move to the Hatch Memorial Shell marks the biggest change in the festival’s six-year history. Founded in 2021 by Boston saxophonist Seba Molnar, the Charles River Jazz Festival has grown from a community event at Herter Park Amphitheater into one of Boston’s largest free jazz festivals.
This year’s lineup is headlined by Ghost-Note, featuring Grammy Award-winning members of Snarky Puppy. Performers also include Tyreek McDole, Seba Molnar, Zahili Zamora, BTALC Big Band, Roella Oloro, the Berklee Institute of Jazz and Gender Justice, Soundz of Now, the Lyric Anderson Quartet, and the NEC Prep and Adult Education Jazz Ensemble.
The Charles River Jazz Festival is adding a second stage
A new Next Gen Stage will debut this year, giving emerging musicians and youth performers a chance to perform alongside nationally recognized artists throughout the day.
Festivalgoers can also expect food, drinks, local vendors, and community organizations along the Esplanade. Vendors include Bon Me, Mei Mei Dumplings, Girl on Fire Vegan, Cini Coffee, Muva’s Main Squeeze, Frios Gourmet Pops, and Lordya Gourmet.
Secret Boston Ambassadors will be there as VIP guests
Secret Boston will be covering the Charles River Jazz Festival with several Secret Boston Ambassadors, who will attend as VIP guests to capture photos and videos throughout the day.
Charles River Jazz Festival 2026
Date: Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026
Time: Noon to 8:30 p.m.
Location: Hatch Memorial Shell, 47 David G. Mugar Way, Boston
Admission: Free with RSVP or donation. VIP tickets are also available.
The Charles River Jazz Festival is produced by the Boston Jazz Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting musicians, expanding access to live jazz, and investing in Boston’s jazz community through performances, education, scholarships, and year-round programming.
