Columbus Jazz & Rib Festival is a beloved summer tradition in Columbus, Ohio, held every July at Bicentennial and Genoa Parks. This vibrant festival celebrates the combination of live jazz music and mouthwatering BBQ, drawing in approximately 375,000 attendees annually. From July 19 to July 21, festival-goers can immerse themselves in three days of exceptional live performances and delicious food offerings from over 15 premiere BBQ teams.
Music
Attendees can delight in an outstanding lineup of musicians showcasing jazz, funk, and soul on three stages throughout the festival grounds. Past editions have featured renowned artists such as the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, The Squirrel Nut Zippers, The Soul Rebels, Norman Brown, Brian Culbertson, and Robert Randolph & The Family Band. Bringing lawn chairs or blankets is encouraged to settle in on the grass and soak up the music and atmosphere.
Admission and Schedule
The event is free to attend, making it accessible and enjoyable for families, friends, and music enthusiasts. It offers lively celebrations on Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 11 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 8:30 pm. All food vendors will be open during event hours only.
Food and Beverages
For BBQ lovers, Cowboys BBQ & Rib Co. and Texas Outlaw BBQ deliver award-winning flavors that have earned national acclaim. Meanwhile, Bus Stop Grill brings a unique twist with its full-size school bus converted into a mobile kitchen. Non-BBQ options also abound, with Bailey's Concessions offering mini donuts and frappes, Boardwok Noodles serving up noodle and rice bowls, and Bubblegum Concessions delighting with fresh-made elephant ears and funnel cakes. For those seeking a taste of the sea, Queen's Table features The FishBoat, a hearty fish sandwich served with a special tartar sauce. To satisfy a sweet tooth, Coco Cat Confections crafts artisanal treats using fresh fruit and exclusive spice blends. Wash it all down with your choice of soft drinks, beer, wine, or cocktails.
Location
Located at Bicentennial Park and West Bank Park , the Jazz & Rib Fest takes place along the scenic Scioto Mile downtown riverfront. Columbus, the capital of Ohio, is situated in the state's center, making it easily accessible from various cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati via Interstate 70 and Interstate 71.
Transportation and Parking
Jazz & Rib Fest attendees can get to downtown Columbus and The Scioto Milechoose by car, bus, or bike. For those opting for public transit, local bus routes and the C-Bus offer quick and easy access. Cyclists can pedal their own bikes or rent a CoGo to explore the trails leading to the festival grounds. Parking is available throughout downtown, with options at Columbus Commons, COSI, and other surface lots. It's essential to note that illegally parked cars will be ticketed and towed. Accessible parking is also provided in designated surface lots and parking garages, requiring proper identification.
History
It all started in 1979 with Music in the Air's Jazz in July series, featuring jazz performances and artistic showcases across the city's parks and facilities. From there, the festival grew, transitioning into the Riverfront Jazz Festival in 1980 and later merging with the UpDowntowners' RibFest in 1990 to become the beloved Jazz & Rib Fest. Over the years, the festival expanded its footprint, welcomed national and international artists, and found new homes along the downtown riverfront, including the Arena District and the newly redeveloped Scioto Mile.
