Duck Jazz Festival 2024 in Outer Banks, NC–VA

The Duck Jazz Festival is an annual ticket-free event, held in the Duck Town Park in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. It traditionally runs over the Columbus Day Weekend in early October and is among the community's favorite ways to celebrate. The festival rounds up local artists as well as national and regional jazz musicians, making for a comprehensively disparate lineup. Celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2024, this festival offers a weekend filled with jazz music, community activities, and a variety of local food and drink options.

Festival Activities

Concerts

The festival features a diverse lineup of national, regional, and local jazz musicians performing on two stages. Highlights include performances by The Jae Sinnett Quintet featuring Randy Brecker and Ada Rovatti, Jazzmeia Horn, The Lao Tizer Band, Empire Strikes Brass, and Antonia Bennett. According to the organizers, this year's lineup promises to deliver exceptional jazz performances, continuing the festival's tradition of celebrating this timeless genre.

Food and Beverages

Visitors can enjoy a range of food and beverage options from local Duck eateries. Some examples of the food available include brisket nachos, bang bang shrimp tacos, smoked chicken wings, funnel fries, pulled pork sandwiches, gluten-free and vegan rice-bean-veggie bowls, popcorn, brownies, and more. In addition to purchasing food on-site, attendees are welcome to bring their own food, coolers, chairs, and blankets.

Additional Activities

Beyond the music, the festival includes various community events. These range from a children's storytime and rhythm play session to a community concert and a movie night featuring "Back to the Future." These activities are designed to engage festival-goers of all ages and enhance the overall experience.

Event Schedule

The festival kicks off with a Concert on the Green on Saturday, October 12, from 4 pm to 6 pm and a Live Jam at The Blue Point at 7:30 pm. The main event takes place on Sunday, October 13, with gates opening at 10 am and live music starting at 11 am. Performances will continue throughout the day, concluding in the early evening. In the days leading up to the festival, there are additional events. On Thursday, October 10, the Elizabeth City State University Choir performs, while Friday, October 11, features a Children's Story Time and Rhythm Play in the morning and a Movie on the Green in the evening.

Tickets and Venue

One of the festival's most appealing features is its free admission policy. The fest is held at Duck Town Park, which provides a scenic backdrop for the festival, with ample space for attendees to spread out and enjoy the music and activities.