The Chicago Jazz Festival (August 31–September 3), produced by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and programmed by the Jazz Institute of Chicago (JIC), returns this Labor Day weekend. Celebrating all forms of jazz in Millennium Park, at the Chicago Cultural Center, and citywide, the festival showcases Chicago’s local talent alongside national and international artists to raise awareness and appreciation for one of the city’s most treasured art forms. This year’s highlights include three-time GRAMMY-winning jazz legend Ron Carter and Foursight; acclaimed American Jazz singer Dianne Reeves; prolific drummer and composer Makaya McCraven; and celebrated Cuban band Juan de Marcos and the Afro-Cuban All Stars, and many more. This week, Chicagoans and visitors alike can enjoy free neighborhood jazz concerts leading up to the downtown festival in venues across Chicago through the Citywide Jazz Community Funding Program. With funds provided by DCASE, local venues are able to present their own jazz performances free of charge. For more information, visit www.MillenniumPark.org.

Photo Credit: Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events