Winter Blues Jazz Fest 2025: A Four-Day Celebration of Music and Culture in Williamsburg
Williamsburg’s beloved Winter Blues Jazz Fest is back for its 11th year, promising an unforgettable weekend of live jazz, blues, and community celebration. Taking place January 17-20, 2025, this four-day festival brings together some of the most talented musicians in the industry while creating a vibrant and immersive experience for attendees of all ages.
With a mix of concerts, workshops, themed brunches, and late-night performances, the Winter Blues Jazz Fest offers something for everyone, from jazz aficionados to casual music lovers. Whether you’re coming for the soulful sounds, the educational sessions, or just the electric atmosphere, this festival is sure to be one of the highlights of Williamsburg’s cultural calendar.
This year, the William & Mary Alumni House will once again serve as the festival’s central hub, providing an elegant yet intimate setting for concerts and events. VIP weekend pass holders will enjoy exclusive access to a dedicated lounge with complimentary refreshments, while all attendees will have a special chill-out space featuring jazz on the big screen and a fully stocked bar available throughout the weekend.
If you’re looking for a musical experience that blends world-class performances with an engaging, community-driven atmosphere, the Winter Blues Jazz Fest is the place to be. Read on for a full breakdown of the weekend’s events!
🎺 Day 1: Friday, January 17, 2025 – Festival Kickoff with Brasswind & Late-Night Jam Sessions
The festival kicks off Friday evening with an electrifying performance by Brasswind, a powerhouse band known for their energetic brass-driven sound. Taking the stage at 7:00 PM at the William & Mary Alumni House, Brasswind will set the tone for an unforgettable weekend of live music.
But the night doesn’t end there! The festival’s late-night events have become legendary, offering intimate, high-energy performances in unique venues. Attendees have two incredible options to choose from:
• Billy Joe Daniel’s Blues Jam at Culture Café – A must-attend for blues lovers, this jam session brings together seasoned musicians and emerging talents for an evening of soulful improvisation and raw, heartfelt blues.
• Wyatt Michael at the Alumni House – Fans of jazz vocals won’t want to miss Wyatt Michael, a standout performer from The Voice, whose smooth, velvet-like crooning brings classic jazz and swing to life.
🎷 Day 2: Saturday, January 18, 2025 – A Full Day of Jazz, Art & Late-Night Grooves
Saturday is packed with a diverse lineup of music, workshops, and interactive experiences that make the Winter Blues Jazz Fest truly unique.
🎼 Morning: Jazz Workshop with Tony Mata
For those looking to deepen their understanding of jazz, join acclaimed musician Tony Mata for a special jazz workshop. Whether you’re a musician yourself or just a fan, this session provides insight into jazz composition, improvisation, and technique.
🎨 Afternoon: “Art of Jazz” with Tony Mata & Justin Kauflin
Combining music and visual art, this event showcases the intersection between live jazz performance and artistic expression, featuring the talents of Tony Mata and Justin Kauflin. Expect an engaging afternoon filled with creativity and inspiration.
🎶 Evening: Big Bluesy – A Night of Intimate, In-the-Round Performances
One of the festival’s signature events, Big Bluesy, is an evening of “music in the round,” where artists perform in an intimate, storytelling-style format. This year’s lineup includes:
• Roberta Lea – A genre-blending singer-songwriter whose music resonates with emotion and authenticity.
• Katie Henry – A blues powerhouse whose fiery guitar licks and soulful vocals make her a must-see act.
🎵 Late Night: Two More Can’t-Miss Events
As the night winds down, festivalgoers can choose between two fantastic late-night performances:
• Rob Torgler’s Raw Beets at Culture Café – A funky, genre-bending group delivering an eclectic mix of jazz, rock, and blues.
• Michael Hawkins & The Brotherhood at the Alumni House – A deeply soulful, groove-driven ensemble that brings the perfect end to an exhilarating day.
🍽️ Day 3: Sunday, January 19, 2025 – Brunch, Chill Sessions & La Fiesta Domingo
Sunday brings a laid-back yet dynamic lineup, perfect for recharging while still soaking in incredible music.
🎷 Morning: New Orleans-Style Jazz Brunch at the Alumni House
Start the day with a New Orleans-themed jazz brunch featuring Matt Fattal’s 504 Supreme. With delicious food, festive vibes, and an authentic French Quarter jazz sound, this brunch is always a festival favorite.
🎵 Afternoon: Sunday Chill with Hoot & Annie
A relaxed yet lively afternoon session featuring Hoot & Annie, a duo known for their soulful harmonies and acoustic-driven sound.
For those looking to dine before the evening event, Culture Café will be offering a specially curated pre-show supper—a wonderful way to fuel up while enjoying the atmosphere of downtown Williamsburg. (Tickets for dinner sold separately.)
💃 Evening: La Fiesta Domingo with Kadencia
Sunday night heats up with La Fiesta Domingo, a vibrant event featuring Kadencia, a powerhouse Latin music group blending salsa, bomba, and plena rhythms. Expect an explosive, dance-worthy performance that celebrates the rich sounds of Afro-Caribbean music.
🎤 Day 4: Monday, January 20, 2025 – Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with The Legendary Ingramettes
The festival closes on a deeply meaningful note with a special tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
🕊️ Free Public Event: The Legendary Ingramettes
One of gospel music’s most revered groups, The Legendary Ingramettes, will deliver a stirring live performance honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King. This event is free and open to the public, offering a chance for the entire community to come together in remembrance and celebration.
🎟️ Get Your Tickets & Join the Celebration!
With so many incredible performances, immersive experiences, and opportunities to engage with jazz, blues, and community culture, the Winter Blues Jazz Fest 2025 is shaping up to be one of Williamsburg’s premier can’t-miss events.
🎫 Ticket Information:
• Single event tickets and VIP weekend passes are available, offering a range of options to suit every budget and preference.
• Tickets can be purchased through the official festival website or at select local venues.
🙌 Thank You to Our Sponsors & Partners
The Winter Blues Jazz Fest wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors and partners, including:
• City of Williamsburg
• Williamsburg Event Rentals
• WMBG Radio & Tide Radio (Marketing Partners)
• Culture Café
• Local musicians, businesses, and the Williamsburg hospitality industry
Presented by CultureFix, the Winter Blues Jazz Fest is more than just a music festival—it’s a celebration of art, culture, and community. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable four-day journey through the best in jazz, blues, and beyond.
For tickets and event details, visit Official website here
See you there! Ticket info here