Middlesex County Jazz Festival - Metuchen

The idea of a Middlesex County-wide jazz festival developed when the leaders of musical events in each town realized that each city produces live musical events, including jazz. This shared experience among neighboring towns and our love of jazz were the seeds that led to a cooperative dialogue and an agreement to join in creating this cross-town event. The event was so successful that Carteret was added to the festival in 2024.

This is a FREE event.

The Metuchen Middlesex County Jazz Festival will take place rain or shine. Visitors may begin seating at the Metuchen High School Auditorium (600-seat capacity) at 5 pm. These events are fully accessible and free for everyone to enjoy in different venues. This is and will continue to be an annual tradition for Jazz in Middlesex County for years to come, and it would be nothing without you!

SATURDAY’S SCHEDULE 5:30 –6:00 

Metuchen Dance Center + MHS Jazz Combo 6:00 – 6:45

Metuchen High School Jazz Ensemble & Metuchen High School Chamber Orchestra 7:00 –8:00

Dave Schumacher & Cubeye 8:15 –9:45

Mingus Big Band. Following their performances, each musician will sell and sign copies of their CDs.

Parking: Free parking for all in Metuchen High School parking lots or area side streets.

Festival Food Starting at 4:30 pm, the Snack Bar operated by Metuchen Music Enrichment and Development Organization (MMEDO) –otherwise known as the Metuchen High School band parents –will be open in the cafeteria. It will stay open until the start of the last act of the Festival! Get pizza, sub sandwiches, soft drinks, and snacks. Cash and Venmo @mmedotreasurer accepted.

What to Bring/What not to Bring: Metuchen thinks dogs are terrific, but they are not permitted at this event unless they are certified service animals.

Vendors Several organizations will be present, including sponsors Manasquan Bank and Westerhoff School of Music, as well as Friends of Metuchen Arts, Metuchen Arts Council, Jersey Jazz (New Jersey Jazz Society), and a table where the performing artists will have their merchandise. Please stop by to say “Hello!” and get information about these organizations. Call 732-632-8502 for further information. To learn more about Metuchen Jazz, visit Friends of Metuchen Arts—Metuchen Jazz.

To learn more about the arts in Metuchen, visit the Metuchen Arts Council.

Grant funding has been provided by the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners through a grant award from the Middlesex County Cultural and Arts Trust Fund. For information on events, go to MiddlesexCountyCulture.com.