Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival Returns with World Travelers & Hometown Heroes Theme

Experience the Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival in November

Set against the picturesque Chesapeake Bay, the charming city of Annapolis comes alive with the annual Jazz & Roots Festival from November 7 to 16. Marking its fourth year, this beloved event originated in the maritime neighborhood of Eastport and is expanding its footprint in 2025 to include eight venues throughout the city and surrounding areas. While most performances are free to enjoy, select shows require tickets, and reservations are strongly recommended to secure your spot.

The Festival Theme: World Travelers & Hometown Heroes

This year, the festival pays tribute to a compelling theme that celebrates both local legends and globally influential artists who have shaped Maryland’s rich cultural scene. It honors musical pioneers and creatives such as Eva Cassidy and Eileen Carson Schatz—whose work continues to inspire far beyond their passing. Attendees can expect a showcase of international and regional artists reflecting the stories and legacies of these trailblazers through music, dance, and visual arts.

Weekend One Highlights

• Opening Night – November 7: Takes place at Peerless Rens, a historic Black social club in Eastport. A Tribute to Eva Cassidy features Baltimore-based musicians Alexis Tantau, Letitia VanSant, and Rusty Sal performing diverse genres. Shows are at 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM with advance tickets priced at $25 ($35 at the door). Light refreshments will be available.
• Saturday Events: The Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum hosts “Sacred Spaces,” an exhibition of paintings by Jabari Jefferson, followed by a live discussion with his father, J.C. Jefferson, a local musician. The afternoon continues with the J.C. Jefferson Quartet honoring Quincy Jones at 2:00 PM.
• Sunday Vibes: Funk-rock fans can groove to Michael McHenry Tribe at Pip Moyer Recreation Center from 3:00 to 5:00 PM. Having worked with prominent artists like The Jacksons and George Clinton, McHenry brings soulful energy perfect for winding down the weekend.

Weekend Two: Dive Deeper into Jazz and Americana

The second weekend kicks off with the Unified Jazz Ensemble on November 14 at Eastport U.M. Church. This group revives the golden age of jazz by revisiting classics from Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Add a touch of nostalgia by dressing in styles from the 1920s to 1940s for a full immersive experience at the 7:00 PM show.

On Saturday morning, the Eastport-Annapolis Neck Library hosts the Ed Hrybyk Trio for an engaging concert “Bass Traditions,” spotlighting legends like Charles Mingus and Ray Brown, accompanied by a Q&A to satisfy curious minds.

By 3:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis, the Footworks Percussive Dance Ensemble honors the influence of late choreographer Eileen Carson Schatz with an Americana performance featuring song and dance. Having received international acclaim, this group keeps Schatz’s spirit alive through traditional music forms fused with modern flair.

Festival Finale

Sunday afternoon showcases the Freedom Choir at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, delivering an uplifting world music program led by multi-instrumentalist Elizabeth Melvin—one of the festival’s hometown heroes. The grand finale that evening is the highly anticipated Joshua Redman Quartet concert at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts. With his latest album “Words Fall Short,” Redman’s dynamic jazz will offer an unforgettable closing note to the festival’s cultural feast. Ticket prices range from $25 to $85.

Funding and Support

The Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival is grateful for the support from the Maryland State Arts Council, Anne Arundel County Arts Council, and other local foundations and partners. The event operates under the Annapolis Community Foundation with artistic direction by Paula (Paulina) Phillips.

How the Festival Enhances Travel and Transfer Experiences

Events like this festival not only enrich Annapolis’s cultural landscape but also shape tourism patterns that directly affect taxi and transfer services. Travelers attending the festival need reliable, timely rides to various venues, airport transfers, and convenient transport options to fully enjoy the diverse program without hassle. Platforms like LocalsRide.com offer an edge here by letting users book exact car models, compare fares, and choose from verified drivers, ensuring each journey matches the event’s vibrant and professional atmosphere.

Why Personal Journeys Matter More Than Reviews

While festival line-ups and artist biographies draw attention and elevate anticipation, it’s the personal experience of the music and atmosphere that truly resonates. Even the most detailed reviews cannot replicate the vibrancy of being there live. LocalsRide supports this by offering travelers a simple, transparent way to secure rides from trusted providers at fair prices, removing worries about hidden fees or subpar vehicles. With a broad selection of vehicles and additional options like meet-and-greet services, festival-goers can focus on enjoying their visit instead of logistics. Book your Ride at LocalsRide.com and make the most of your festival adventure.

Looking Ahead and Wrapping Up

The Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival embodies the spirit of community, artistry, and musical heritage, drawing visitors to this historic city year after year. While not reshaping the global tourism map on its own, such events represent vital cultural hubs supporting local economies and enriching visitor experiences. Staying updated on these developments helps platforms like LocalsRide keep pace with evolving travel needs.

To sum it up, the festival’s blend of world-class music, historic venues, and community pride creates an engaging cultural celebration. Whether arriving via airport transfer or moving between venues, ease of travel enhances the overall enjoyment. LocalsRide.com offers a uniquely transparent and user-friendly service, allowing travelers to explore the city seamlessly with their choice of vehicle and driver, making every trip as harmonious as the festival itself.