Jazz in the Park

Twice a year – each Wednesday in April and September – Little Rock’s Riverfront Park comes to life with the sounds of soulful jazz and joyful music. Made locally.

Sponsored by the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau in partnership with the Art Porter Music Education, Inc., Jazz in the Park celebrates local musicians in Little Rock’s jazz scene. Each concert is held in River Market. Originally, when the concert series began in 2013 it was hosted in the park’s history pavilion, but as crowds have grown over the years, it has expanded to take up the east River Market Pavilion. For especially large events, concerts may be held at the park’s First Security Amphitheater.

EVENT DETAILS:

  • Entertainment: This concert series highlights the best of Little Rock’s diverse and talented jazz and R&B scene, and careful attention is paid to showcasing the many facets of jazz and R&B performance styling Little Rock is home to. Guests can expect everything from smooth vocals to virtuosic instrumental solos and everything in between.
  • Food & Drinks: Guests are welcome to bring food to the concert, but not drinks. Both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages are available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the Art Porter Music Education scholarship fund. Purchases may be made using cash, Cash App, or credit cards.
  • Admission: Admission is FREE to the public. This event is both dog and kid-friendly, so feel free to bring the whole family for a jazzy good time! Picnic blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged, but coolers are not allowed. A limited number of chairs are provided at the event for patron use during pavilion events.
The Funkanites performing at Jazz in the Park in Little Rock, AR.

WHEN & WHERE:

All concerts will be held at the River Market Pavilions or First Security Amphitheater. In case of rain, concerts will move to Ottenheimer River Market Hall.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the final lineup of this year's Jazz in the Park presents:

  • September 6 – First Security Amphitheater- 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Special 10th Anniversary Grand Opening featuring Nicky Parrish and Friends
  • September 13 - River Market Pavilions – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dee Dee Jones
  • September 20 - River Market Pavilions - 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Butterfly of New Orleans, Katrice Newbill
  • September 27 - First Security Amphitheater. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Special 10th Anniversary Finale featuring Rodney Block and his All-Star Friends
The audience cheering at Jazz in the Park in Little Rock, AR.

Past Jazz in the Park performers include: Rodney P. Outfit, Katrice Newbill, Nicky Parrish, Louis Heard & Co., the Dizzy 7, Twice Sax, Tonya Leeks, Genine LaTrice Perez, and The Rodney Block Collective.

Where to Stay

Planning your stay near the River Market? Browse through an array of lodgings in Little Rock. Whether you're looking for a hotel with modern amenities or a bed and breakfast with top-rated food, Little Rock offers comfortable stays for all travelers. Make a visit to Little Rock's downtown area and take a short walk from your hotel into a vibrant atmosphere.

Things to Do Before or After Jazz in the Park

The River Market district is home to a variety of restaurants, stores, and more. Discover things to do with your little ones, or make your way to a new date night spot in downtown Little Rock. Filled with museums, entertainment, and outdoor spots, this lively downtown area of Little Rock provides unforgettable experiences for all jazz goers.

Other Events