Jazz Festival: Everything you need to know

Lewiston celebrates 23 years of jazz with one of WNY’s premier free music festivals

Submitted by the Northwest Lewiston Jazz Festival Foundation Board

The 23rd annual Northwest Lewiston Jazz Festival returns Aug. 22-23, celebrating more than two decades of world-class jazz performances in the heart of the historic Village of Lewiston. This year’s event continues its founding mission: To expose as many people as possible to the uniquely American and profoundly influential art form of jazz – and to do it entirely for free.

From its inception, the Lewiston Jazz Festival has remained 100% free to attend, ensuring that audiences of all ages and backgrounds can experience the rich tapestry of jazz music without barriers. The festival’s commitment to musical excellence is unwavering, featuring headliners of international acclaim while also spotlighting the incredible talent found right here in Western New York.

“Our goal is to provide a platform for the very best jazz being performed – from anywhere in the world, and right here at home,” said Carol Calato, chairwoman of the Jazz Festival foundation board. “We are so proud of what this festival represents: access, artistry and community. The board works year-round to make this happen, and we are thrilled to see how it brings Lewiston to life every summer.”

In addition to more than two-dozen live jazz performances across multiple stages, the festival will feature 43 registered food and beverage vendors, offering a wide range of culinary delights and local wines, beers and spirits.

The success of the festival would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, Northwest Bank; our Stage Sponsors, Sevenson Environmental Services, Modern Disposal Services, and the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission; and our top municipal supporters, the Town and Village of Lewiston. Their partnership and commitment to the arts help keep this cherished community tradition alive and thriving.

“The support from our Lewiston business community has been incredible,” said Amanda Haseley, president of the Upward Niagara Chamber of Commerce, which manages the festival. “This event not only brings joy to residents and visitors, it also plays a key role in supporting tourism and local business. We’re grateful to every shop, restaurant and organization that contributes to making this festival a continued success.”

This celebration of jazz, food and community would not be possible without the tireless work of the Jazz Festival foundation board, whose members dedicate their time and energy year-round to bringing this event to life.

Join us for a weekend of rhythm, soul and swing at one of the region’s most beloved summer traditions – where world-class jazz meets small-town charm.

For full event details and lineup announcements, visit www.lewistonjazz.com.

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Sponsoring Jazz Festival

The 23^rd annual Northwest Jazz Festival returns to Center Street from 5-10:30 p.m. Friday and noon to 10:30 p.m. Saturday.

This event would not be possible without the support of the following: presenting sponsor Northwest Bank, center stage sponsor Modern Corporation, Frontier House stage sponsor Sevenson Environmental Services, Peace Garden stage sponsor Niagara Falls Bridge Commission, the Town of Lewiston and the Village of Lewiston.

Gathering together for a photo outside of the Northwest Bank Lewiston branch are, clockwise from left: Northwest Bank Vice President Financial Center Manager (Town of Niagara office) Lisa Sweeney, Northwest Bank SVP New York District Manager Jeffrey Leach, AVP Financial Center Manager (Lewiston office) Jackie Nightingale and Jazz Festival Chairperson Carol Calato.

Pictured, back row from left: Leach, Sevenson Environmental Services VP/General Superintendent Frank Fracassi, Town of Lewiston Supervisor Steve Broderick and Modern Corporation CEO Derek Veenhof; bottom row, from left: Calato, Village of Lewiston Mayor Anne Welch, Nightingale, Sweeney and Niagara Falls Bridge Commission Chairperson Kathleen Neville.

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Street closing

Center Street will be closed this weekend for the Northwest Lewiston Jazz Festival. The roadway closes at 5 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22 (all vehicles must be off Center Street by 3 a.m., per Lewiston Police). The thoroughfare reopens at 5 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 23.

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