🎷 Event Overview
Official Name: Lake Arbor Jazz Festival
Location: Largo, Maryland (Prince George’s County, Greater Washington D.C. area)
Venue(s): Lake Arbor Community Center, Ritchie Coliseum, Camelot by Martin’s, Bowie State University, and local parks
Dates: Wednesday, July 9 – Sunday, July 13, 2025
The Lake Arbor Jazz Festival is a premier summertime celebration of contemporary, smooth, and classic jazz, rooted in the vibrant culture of Prince George’s County, Maryland. Now in its 15th year, the festival has grown from a community gathering into one of the mid-Atlantic’s most anticipated jazz events, drawing music lovers, families, and creatives from across the country.
With a focus on Black music, wellness, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, the Lake Arbor Jazz Festival offers more than just music—it’s a movement dedicated to celebrating artistry, local businesses, and connection.
🕰️ History and Background
Founded: 2010
Founded By: The Lake Arbor Foundation Inc., a nonprofit based in Prince George’s County
The festival was created to enrich the cultural life of Prince George’s County by hosting a world-class jazz experience that’s accessible, family-friendly, and mission-driven. From modest beginnings with lawn chairs and picnic baskets to sold-out ticketed shows, Lake Arbor Jazz has blossomed into a cultural touchpoint in the DMV region.
Key Milestones:
- 2015: Expanded to a week-long format with themed events and VIP performances
- 2019: Introduced wellness workshops and business panels
- 2023–2024: Welcomed major names like Eric Darius, Gerald Albright, and Maysa
- 2025: Marks its 15th anniversary with new venues, elevated production, and community collaborations
🌟 Why You Should Attend
Because it’s more than jazz—it’s a celebration of soulful living.
The Lake Arbor Jazz Festival isn’t about big stages and big crowds alone—it’s about intimacy, community, and the kind of atmosphere where neighbors become family. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or just love summer vibes with good food and great music, this festival hits the sweet spot between high-caliber performances and hometown warmth.
Reasons to Attend:
- Diverse lineup of nationally recognized and local jazz artists
- Family-friendly environment with activities for all ages
- Opportunities to support Black-owned businesses and artists
- Relaxed outdoor setting with picnic-style concerts and lawn seating
- Integrated wellness, financial empowerment, and networking opportunities
🔥 What to Expect This Year (2025)
Headliners & Featured Artists (TBA April 2025)
Previous years have featured:
- Marcus Anderson
- Maysa Leak
- Peter White
- Brian Simpson
- Kim Waters
- Jackiem Joyner
- The Luther Re-Lives Experience
2025 Schedule Highlights:
Wednesday, July 9 – Festival Kickoff & Networking Mixer
Venue: Camelot by Martin’s
Live music, DJ, food & drink, and local art vendors
Thursday, July 10 – Jazz & Business Empowerment Forum
Venue: Bowie State University
Workshops on entrepreneurship, branding, and leadership in the arts
Friday, July 11 – Smooth Jazz Night & VIP Experience
Venue: Ritchie Coliseum
An elegant evening of music, wine tasting, and socializing
Saturday, July 12 – Main Festival Day at Lake Arbor Community Center
12 PM – 9 PM | Outdoor Concert on the Lawn
Bring chairs, blankets, and coolers—featuring 8+ artists, food trucks, and a vendor marketplace
Sunday, July 13 – Jazz Brunch & Gospel Finale
Venue: Local venue TBA
Live soul and gospel jazz performance with catered brunch service
🎟️ Ticket Types & Pricing
- Wednesday Kickoff Mixer: $25–$35
- Thursday Forum: Free with RSVP
- Friday Night Concert: $65–$95 (VIP packages available)
- Saturday General Admission: $55 early bird | $75 regular
- Saturday Reserved Seating: $125 VIP with table service
- Sunday Brunch Finale: $75
🎟 Purchase at www.lakearborjazz.com/tickets
✈️ Travel & Logistics
Closest Airports:
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): ~30 minutes
- Baltimore/Washington International (BWI): ~35 minutes
- Washington Dulles International (IAD): ~50 minutes
Ground Transportation:
- Metro: Blue Line to Largo Town Center Metro Station
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft widely available
- Parking: Free and paid parking available at most venues
- Shuttles: Provided for ticketed guests to select venues
🏨 Where to Stay
Recommended Hotels:
- Courtyard by Marriott Largo Capital Beltway
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Largo-Washington DC
- Holiday Inn Express I-95 Capitol Beltway
- Gaylord National Resort (National Harbor – 20 mins away)
Some hotels offer discounted rates for festival-goers through the festival website.
🍽️ Where to Eat
Black-Owned and Local Favorites:
- Milk & Honey Cafe (Bowie): Popular for brunch
- HalfSmoke (DC): Creative menu, cocktails, and live DJ vibes
- KitchenCray (Lanham): Elevated soul food
- Carolina Kitchen (Largo): Go-to for fried chicken and seafood
- Busboys & Poets (Hyattsville): For a cultural, literary dining experience
Expect a wide range of food trucks at the Saturday event, including Caribbean, vegan, BBQ, and sweet treats.
🧠 Tips for First-Timers
- Dress Code: Casual chic for outdoor events; smart attire for evening concerts
- Bring: Lawn chairs, umbrellas, water bottles, and picnic blankets for outdoor shows
- Weather: July is hot and humid—hydrate and wear light fabrics
- Cash & Cards: Vendors accept both, but having cash for tips and parking helps
- Connect: Join the festival’s mailing list for exclusive invites and real-time updates
📲 How to Stay Connected
- Website: www.lakearborjazz.com
- Instagram: @lakearborjazz
- Facebook: Lake Arbor Jazz Festival
- Twitter/X: @lakearborjazz
- YouTube: Lake Arbor Jazz TV
- Hashtags: #LakeArborJazz2025 #JazzInThePark #PGCountyJazz
📝 Final Notes
Performer & Vendor Info:
- Performer submissions: Due by March 31, 2025
- Vendor registration: Open through May 30, 2025
- Volunteer applications: Accepted through June 15, 2025
- Press credentials: Apply via media@lakearborjazz.com by June 20, 2025
Health & Safety:
The event adheres to Prince George’s County guidelines. Sanitization stations, on-site EMS, and security will be present. Attendees are encouraged to stay updated via the festival website.
📅 Mark Your Calendar
Whether you’re grooving to smooth jazz under the stars, sipping wine with friends, or networking with creative minds, Lake Arbor Jazz Festival 2025 is where music, culture, and connection come together in perfect harmony.🎷 July 9–13, 2025 | Prince George’s County, Maryland
🎟 Reserve your experience: www.lakearborjazz.com
📣 Bring your blanket. Bring your vibe. Let the rhythm guide you.
