Willingboro Jazz Fest back in-person for first time in two years
No more saxophone solos through computer speakers!
The Willingboro Jazz Festival will be held in-person on Aug. 14, following two years of virtual events.
Marking its 39th annual installment, the festival will feature two-time Grammy Award-winning composer and music director Derrick Hodge, Grammy Award-winning artist Chrisette Michele, singer-songwriter Cory Henry along with many other performers.
The free event will take place in Millcreek Park at 300 Beverly Rancocas Rd. The park opens to attendees at 11 a.m. and the festival starts at noon. Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and charcoal grills as well as stay for fireworks at the end of the festival.
Other performances include Camden-raised and Emmy Award-winning jazz artist Nasir Dickerson, pianist James Austin, self-described “young ‘old soul’” artist James “Teddy” DeWalt and the One Band, trumpeter Matt Cappy of Berlin and R&B singer Rodney Mannsfield.
Car parking is $15 while RV parking costs $25.
"Hosting a virtual festival, the past two years was a little different for us,” said acting Recreation & Parks Director Dionne Bolden. “The atmosphere is incomparable when we're enjoying music and fun in person, and that's why we’re most excited to get back to the park this year."
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The festival is a staple in the community, said township Manager Dwayne Harris.
“It unites our residents and visitors for wholesome fun through good music and entertainment," said Harris. "I am proud that we have the opportunity to host this festival in person again for all to enjoy."
Founded in the early 1980s by saxophonist Billy Keil and trumpeter Bill O’Donnell, the festival has a rich history in Willingboro. Past headliners include singer-songwriter Al B. Sure, rapper Big Daddy Kane and singer Cece Peniston.
If You Go:
The 39th Annual Willingboro Jazz Festival at Millcreek Park, 300 Beverly Rancocas Rd., Willingboro, N.J. Park opens at 11 a.m., festival starts at noon.Parking starts at $10, but admission is free.
This article originally appeared on Burlington County Times: Willingboro Jazz Festival in NJ returns in-person Aug. 14