Located on the historic campus of Gallaudet University, Kellogg Conference Hotel Capitol Hill offers a comfortable home base for music lovers attending the 2026 DC JazzFest.
From September 2–6, 2026, the festival brings internationally acclaimed jazz artists, emerging performers and local talent to venues throughout Washington, DC, culminating in a full weekend of performances at The Wharf.
Whether you're planning your trip around a favorite artist or spending Labor Day weekend discovering live music across the city, Kellogg Conference Hotel keeps you connected to the festival while giving you a quieter place to recharge between performances.
Book NowThe 2026 DC JazzFest lineup brings together celebrated jazz artists from across generations and styles.
Featured performers include:
Festival programming ranges from vocal jazz and contemporary improvisation to Afro-Caribbean influences, fusion, go-go and tributes honoring important figures in jazz history.
The 2026 festival arrives during the nationwide celebration of America's 250th anniversary, giving visitors another way to experience Washington during this historic year.
Special festival programming includes international cultural collaborations and performances celebrating America's musical legacy while looking toward the next generation of jazz artists.
Several performances during the festival's EU Mini-Fest are being presented as musical celebrations of America's 250th anniversary.
The centerpiece of the festival takes place September 5–6 at The Wharf, one of Washington's most popular waterfront destinations.
Festivalgoers can experience multiple performances while exploring restaurants, shops and gathering spaces along the Potomac River.
Key venues within the Wharf programming include:
The main Wharf festival runs from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM on both Saturday and Sunday.
Ticket levels currently range from general admission options beginning around $29 to premium and VIP experiences reaching approximately $995. Certain indoor performances require specific ticket levels, and individual venues may reach capacity.
Visitors can also experience DC JazzFest without purchasing a festival pass.
On Thursday, September 3, DC JazzFest at Anthem Row presents a free outdoor evening of music from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM near Gallery Place–Chinatown.
Scheduled performers include:
The event is free and open to the public, with optional donations supporting DC Jazz Festival educational programs.
On Saturday, September 5, Union Stage hosts the 11th annual DCJazzPrix Finals, the festival's international competition for emerging jazz ensembles.
The 2026 finalists are:
The winning ensemble receives a $15,000 grand prize along with professional development support and a future DC JazzFest performance opportunity.
One of the things that makes DC JazzFest unique is that the celebration extends beyond a single festival site.
During the five-day event, performances take place throughout neighborhoods and venues across Washington, allowing visitors to experience both the city's jazz culture and its distinctive communities.
That citywide format makes DC JazzFest an excellent reason to turn Labor Day weekend into a broader Washington getaway.
Kellogg Conference Hotel Capitol Hill offers convenient access to destinations throughout Washington, including The Wharf and downtown festival venues.
Guests can travel to festival events using:
Because performances take place throughout the city, guests should check the official festival schedule and individual venue details before heading out.
After hours of live music, crowds and exploring Washington, Kellogg Conference Hotel offers a peaceful place to return to on the historic campus of Gallaudet University.
Guests enjoy:
Make Kellogg Conference Hotel Capitol Hill your home base for five days of jazz, culture and exploration in Washington, DC.
DC JazzFest takes place September 2–6, 2026, with performances at venues throughout Washington, DC.
Events take place at approximately 20 venues across Washington. The signature DC JazzFest at The Wharf takes place September 5–6 along the Southwest waterfront.
The main Wharf festival is scheduled for 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturday, September 5 and Sunday, September 6.
Some festival events are free, including DC JazzFest at Anthem Row on September 3. Other performances and the primary Wharf weekend require tickets or festival passes.
The lineup includes Dee Dee Bridgewater, Joshua Redman, Kurt Elling, Emmet Cohen, Bill Frisell, Nate Smith, Danilo Pérez, Etienne Charles and many additional artists.
Current ticket options for DC JazzFest at The Wharf range from approximately $29 to $995 depending on the ticket type and level of access.
Kellogg Conference Hotel Capitol Hill offers convenient transportation access to festival venues while providing a quieter campus setting near Union Market, NoMa and Capitol Hill.
Tickets, schedules and festival updates are available directly from the official DC Jazz Festival website.
Not found
