A Weekend Of Smooth Jazz at Pier Park

In North West Florida April is a big month. For most it’s a time for spring break, warmer weather, and long days on the beach. For this Destin native it means a weekend at the Sea Breeze Jazz Festival. Both locals and vacationers look forward to this event every year.

I remember when the Sea Breeze Jazz Festival made its debut in 1999. It started small with just a few participants, mostly from local areas. Over the years I’ve seen it grow into the popular festival it is today, attracting over 5000 music lovers each day from all over the States and abroad. Not just attracting locals, now we see visitors from all over planning their vacations so they’re able to attend and enjoy an entire weekend of Jazz.

Growing out of its original home in Gulf Place, the Jazz Festival took up residents at Pier Park’s Amphitheatre in Panama City. It’s a new outdoor mall with plenty of space and plenty of shops to fill it. It’s the perfect location for a crowd of music lovers and amazing jazz performers.

Speaking of performers the line-up this year looks better than ever! Some of my favorites include: Warren Hill, Gerald Albright, Peter White, and Jones & Company. Prepare for a special treat on Thursday evening with Boney James and my all time favorite, George Benson!

Tickets are on sale now and are a bit pricey but totally worth it for a weekend of music magic! You will not want to miss the event that is recognized as being one of the top Jazz Festivals in the country, as well as “Best Event” and “Best Place to Be Seen” by Emerald Coast Magazine.

Published on Tuesday, March 15, 2011