Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival to Feature Music and History

The Annapolis Jazz & Roots Festival is set to launch its fifth iteration from November 6-15 in Annapolis, Maryland, along the Chesapeake Bay. The festival aims to showcase a blend of music, art, poetry, and history across eight venues in five distinct neighborhoods.

The 2026 theme, "New World Music: Centuries of Sound," will explore the evolution of music and culture from colonial times to the present. Attendees can experience historical buildings and waterfront views while tracing the development of jazz and other musical traditions.

Opening night on November 6 features the Muneer Nasser Band at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, paying tribute to jazz legends John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Randy Weston. Other highlights include vocalist Vanessa Racci discussing Italian contributions to jazz, the Afro-Peruvian band Perkutao, colonial music performed by David and Ginger Hildebrand, and a modern jazz set by Makaya McCraven.

Events range from free to modestly priced, with most venues offering free parking. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for all attendees. More information can be found at instantseats.com.