Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

The Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is a three‑day celebration of jazz and blues held annually each July beneath the soaring Gothic arches of Portland’s St. Johns Bridge. Launched in 1980, it’s the longest-running free jazz festival west of the Mississippi River. Organized by the Jazz Society of Oregon, this beloved event draws families, aficionados, and casual listeners alike, who gather on the park’s grassy slope to enjoy outstanding live performances. The 45th edition is scheduled for July 18–20, 2025, featuring a diverse lineup from swing and soul to Brazil-infused jazz, led by local and regional artists, from Taylor Newville to Carlton Jackson & Dave Mills Big-Band with Curtis Salgado.

The entire event is free, thanks to sponsorships, volunteer support, and optional donations. Attendees are encouraged to bring low chairs or blankets—not tents or umbrellas—to maintain clear sightlines, and can purchase food from food trucks and enjoy a beer & wine garden on-site. Dogs are discouraged (unless service animals), and no outside alcohol is allowed.

Located at N Edison Street and Pittsburg Avenue