The New England Jazz Enrichment Foundation and The Newton Jazz Festival are committed to producing quality events that not only bring Newton Residents out, but also bring people throughout New England into our community and businesses.

Started in 2008 under the Mayor's Block Party Program as an afternoon of free jazz outside the New Art Center at Washington Park, the Newton Jazz Festival has been growing each year showcasing some of the finest jazz that the Greater Boston area has to offer. in 2009 the Festival was moved to the grounds of the historic Jackson Homestead. In 2014 Food and Craft booths were added along with a second event, a signature show at the beautiful Newton Veterans Memorial Auditorium Patrice Williamson's "Celebrating Ella". 5 vocalists regaled a packed house with their favorite selections from the Ella Fitzgerald catalog. One of the highlights of the show was the presentation of the First NEJEF educational scholarship to 16yo vocalist Cassandra Pearl. 2015's Festival will include "100 Years of Frank & Billie" A Tribute to Frank Sinatra and Billie Holiday.

The Newton Jazz Festival will plans to keep expanding to additional locations throughout the city adding scholarship opportunities to its cause. Some of our featured artists include award-winning vocalist Patrice Williamson, Dominique Eade, Dale LePage, Lydia Harrell, The Rusty Scott Quartet, Fred Woodard, Lance Martin, The Quartet of Happiness and many others. As the weekend events expand, the performing roster will expand to include more local artists and the occasional big name headliner!