Tag Archives: Smooth Jazz Concerts

Jazz Fest Returns to Pompano Beach for a 5th Anniversary Celebration

Brian Culbertson, scheduled to perform on Saturday, April 18

Jazz Fest Pompano Beach is back—bigger and bolder than ever. Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 2026, as the City of Pompano Beach, proudly presents the 5th anniversary of this beloved beachfront festival. Set along the city’s stunning shoreline, Jazz Fest once again delivers two unforgettable days of world-class music, vibrant culture, and community celebration—all free to the public. Guests can also elevate their experience with exclusive VIP opportunities, including premium viewing areas and commemorative 5th anniversary items.

What began five years ago as an ambitious cultural initiative has grown into one of South Florida’s premier music events. The festival’s impact continues to rise year after year, with more than 10,000 registered attendees in 2025, underscoring Jazz Fest’s growing reputation as a must-attend destination event. With warm ocean breezes, salted air, and the sultry sounds of jazz filling the beach, this milestone year is set to rival the most notable jazz festivals in the region.

Beyond the extraordinary performances, Jazz Fest Pompano Beach offers something for everyone. Festivalgoers can enjoy a lively culinary village featuring local and global flavors, explore creative activations and relax in a scenic, friendly beachfront setting. The popular Local Talent Stage returns as a cornerstone of the festival, celebrating the depth and diversity of local musicians.

*Richard Elliot performing on Saturday, April 18 (photo by Lori Stoll)*

The 2026 lineup shines with Grammy-winning and internationally acclaimed artists. Saturday, April 18, opens with the elegance and radiant flute artistry of Kim Scott, followed by the powerhouse saxophone sound of Grammy-nominated Richard Elliot. Closing out the night is contemporary jazz icon Brian Culbertson, a genre-defying performer with an incredible 30 Billboard No. 1 singles, known for delivering high-energy shows that blend jazz, funk, soul, and unforgettable showmanship.

*Kim Scott performs on Saturday, April 18*

Sunday, April 19, continues the momentum with the bold and inventive piano stylings of Connie Han, followed by the smooth, soulful signature sound of saxophonist Walter Beasley. The festival culminates with an explosive finale by Ghost-Note, led by multi-Grammy–winning percussionists Robert “Sput” Searight and Nate Werth, whose electrifying grooves transform jazz into an unstoppable force.

*Walter Beasley is performing on Sunday, April 19*

RSVPs are encouraged to help plan for security, food, drinks, and merchandise. Performance times and the full festival schedule are available here.

Don’t miss the best free jazz festival on the beach—where every note tells a story, every artist brings something extraordinary, and Pompano Beach comes alive with rhythm and soul.

The 5th Anniversary Jazz Fest Pompano Beach, scheduled for April 18-19, 2026, is located at Pompano Beach Fisher Family Pier, 222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd. in Pompano Beach, Florida. For more information, visit pompanobeacharts.org/events/jazz-fest

Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Payne for bringing back Jazz at the Beach!

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Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach at the Oceanside Pier Amphitheatre (photo by David Hopley)

Pat Prescott (94.7 The WAVE), Jean Braxton (Permission to Talk), Willie Payne (owner, Payne Pest Management) & Kelly Cole (KPRi Lites-Out Jazz radio show host) at Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach (photo by David Hopley)

Before I even entered the venue, I was impressed with how well Kathy and Willie Payne and their staff organized their Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach concert last Sunday.

Clearly marked signs directed patrons to the VIP parking lot where volunteers waved us through and pointed to available spaces to park our car. From there, it was a few steps to the entrance where competent staff immediately exchanged our tickets for wristbands and meal/drink tickets. When I entered the venue, I was thrilled to notice a “cooling station.” Even though we were a few sandy yards from the cool, wavy, waters, the two industrial-sized fans blowing cool air in this shady tented area was more refreshing than the ocean breeze.

I had my own chair, so I claimed my space in this coolness and sat there for the first two hours. San Diego County was suffering through record heat that weekend (nearly 90, plus humidity at the coast!), and as much as I love live jazz, all I cared about was surviving this intense heatwave. Although I couldn’t see the stage from the cooling station, I certainly could hear the wonderful sounds of Brian Simpson and Marc Antoine.

Steve Oliver performing at Jazz at the Beach in Oceanside, CA (photo by David Hopley)

By the time Steve Oliver took the stage, the sun had moved far enough west that our seats were now in the shade. So, I was able to enjoy the rest of the performances in front of the stage, which also included Eric Darius as the closing act.

Brian Simpson & Marc Antoine sign autographs for fans at Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach (photo by David Hopley)

Fans not only got to meet the artists after each performance and get a CD signed, they also had photo opportunities at the step-and-repeat.

Food vendors at Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach (photo by David Hopley)

In addition to the men’s health awareness fair, wonderful food and beverage vendors lined the perimeter of the venue. Pulled-pork sandwiches, sausages with grilled onions and peppers, barbecue, gyros, Greek salad, home-made ice cream, chocolate kabobs and other tasty treats were available for purchase. And, even more convenience as wait staff served patrons at tables and those seated in rows of chairs.

Fresh fruit dipped in chocolate and other toppings at Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach (photo by David Hopley)

And, on the practical side, there were plenty of clean, running-water restroom facilities as well as trash and recycle bins.

Sunset at Lites-Out Jazz at the Beach (photo by David Hopley)

This first event offered all of the perks and comforts one could possibly hope for at an outdoor concert or festival, including spectacular beach views. And, there’s more good news…the Paynes are planning a full series at the Oceanside Pier Amphitheatre in 2015!

Bravo, Kathy and Willie Payne!

For more information, visit www.litesoutjazzatthebeach.com.