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    Duck Jazz Festival

    Town of Duck soundfront boardwalk
    Date/Time:
    at - at
    Location:
    1200 Duck Rd
    Venue:
    Duck Town Park

    Details about Duck Jazz Festival

    Proud Sponsor

    Price:

    • The Duck Jazz Festival is free to attend.

    Ages:

    • All ages welcome!

    Pets:

    • Leashed pets are welcome at the Duck Jazz Festival.

    Please note: A concert on the Green is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, 4-6 p.m. A full day of music is planned for Sunday, October 12; gates open at 10 a.m.

    Duck Jazz Festival: October 10-11, 2026

    The Duck Jazz Festival is a classic Outer Banks tradition that happens every Columbus Day weekend and kicks off the fall season. This free and family-friendly event takes place in the coastal village of Duck and combines smooth jazz, good eats, fresh air, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

    Duck Town Park

    History of the Duck Jazz Festival

    Since it began in 2007, the Duck Jazz Festival has grown from a small local event into a full-blown annual weekend celebration that attracts thousands of visitors from all over. The town’s amphitheater was completed in 2009, giving the event a dedicated main stage. The town’s soundfront boardwalk expanded in the years following, making the village that much more of a magical setting for what has become a beloved annual music festival for visitors and residents alike. The festival is known for its great mix of performers, its friendly, small-town atmosphere, great food, epic sunset backdrop, and sense of togetherness that both locals and vacationers enjoy.

    What to Expect at the Duck Jazz Festival

    The Jazz Festival is all about enjoying the moment. Spread out your blankets, set up beach chairs, put on your dancing shoes, and settle in for hours of soulful music, scrumptious food, and good conversation, all while soaking in the serene coastal setting. You can expect a variety of live jazz performers and bands playing throughout the day at the Duck Town Park. The music lineup always has an engaging variety, with past performers like the powerful U.S. Army Blues and United States Air Force Heritage of America Band, and expressive artists such as Jazzmeia Horn and Antonia Bennett. The 2026 lineup continues that impressive expectation with Latin-infused acts like Tito Puente Jr., smooth funk-infused artist Gerald Veasley, and powerful gospel-inspired musician Shayna Steele. And who can forget the local First Flight High School Honors Jazz Band, always a crowd favorite, showcasing the next generation of musicians with performances full of swing, blues, a little Latin flair, and a full instrumental ensemble. Whether you’re coming for the music or the relaxed coastal vibe, the festival has something for all ages and interests.

    Explore The Area

    There’s plenty to explore around the festival site, too! Duck’s boardwalk offers scenic views along the sound and connects you to a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cafes, including Duck Donuts, NC Coast Grill & Bar, Duck’s Cottage, and Farmer’s Daughter, to name a few. Many businesses join in on the fun with jazz-themed specials and pop-up events throughout the weekend. You’ll also find food vendors nearby, or you can bring your own picnic and enjoy it right in the park. From the park to the local shops and restaurants, the entire town becomes part of the celebration.

    Town of Duck

    See You There!

    Rain or shine, the Duck Jazz Festival delivers a laid-back, feel-good experience that captures everything people love about the Outer Banks. It’s a mix of great music, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming atmosphere that brings together locals, visitors, and music lovers of all ages. Whether it’s your first time or a yearly tradition, it’s the kind of event that keeps you coming back for more.