The 2nd Annual Bradley Beach Jazz Festival 2026 returns with an expanded five‑day celebration of world‑class jazz, blues, and community spirit, bringing together legendary artists, rising stars, and local favorites for one of the region’s most anticipated cultural events. From February 3–7, venues across Bradley Beach will come alive with electrifying performances leading into a powerhouse Mainstage Weekend.
The night 8:00 pm culminates in a marquee performance showcasing a true Jazz Powerhouse: Night opens with saxophonist John Petrucelli, the Lezlie Harrison Quartet and the magnificent Delfeayo Marsalis, delivering an unforgettable finale to this year’s celebration. With its blend of legacy, innovation, and community connection, the Bradley Beach Jazz Festival produced by Bradley Beach Tourism continues to establish itself as a premier destination for jazz lovers across New Jersey and beyond.
Festival Schedule
February 3
The soulful Marel Hidalgo Organ Trio igniting The Elbow Room.February 4
Stringbean Blues featuring Bernard Purdie brings deep groove and blues fire to Pagano’s.February 5
The retro‑modern energy of the Vintage Vibe Tribe at D’Arcy’s Tavern.John Lee with Roberta Gambarini
The celebrated bassist and vocalist, renowned for their sophisticated interpretations and deep commitment to the jazz tradition.Winard Harper
A masterful drummer and bandleader known for his hard-swinging style and powerful rhythmic drive.Jerry Weldon
The dynamic tenor saxophonist, celebrated for his soulful tone and long-standing collaborations with jazz legends.Lezlie Harrison Quartet
Lezlie Harrison is a jazz vocalist, WBGO radio host/curator, and a co-founder of the renowned New York performance space, The Jazz Gallery. Known for her distinctive delivery in Jazz, Blues, Gospel, and Soul, she has performed globally and occasionally works as an actress.John Petrucelli
John Petrucelli is an award-winning tenor saxophonist, composer, and scholar originally from New Jersey. He began his career performing in the Trenton club scene and has since earned multiple advanced degrees, including a PhD in music. Known for blending straight-ahead jazz tradition with contemporary research, he has studied and mentored with jazz legends like Geri Allen and Charles Tolliver, and currently curates the custom saxophone shop, SHORE SAX.The excitement builds into the Mainstage Weekend
February 6-7
Beginning Friday, February 6, it's an evening of jazz excellence featuring John Lee & Friends—Karl Latham, Freddie Hendrix, Alex Collins, and special guest Roberta Gambarini—opening the festival is the powerhouse Jerry Weldon Quintet. The festival reaches its peak on Saturday, February 7 at 4:00 pm Starting with the Bradley Beach Community Jam led by Winard Harper with featured artists pianist Mala Waldron and basset Christopher Dean Sullivan and some very cool friends.The night 8:00 pm culminates in a marquee performance showcasing a true Jazz Powerhouse: Night opens with saxophonist John Petrucelli, the Lezlie Harrison Quartet and the magnificent Delfeayo Marsalis, delivering an unforgettable finale to this year’s celebration. With its blend of legacy, innovation, and community connection, the Bradley Beach Jazz Festival produced by Bradley Beach Tourism continues to establish itself as a premier destination for jazz lovers across New Jersey and beyond.
