LEONARDTOWN, MD – The much-anticipated Potomac Jazz & Seafood Festival, a highlight of the Mid-Atlantic’s jazz calendar, is gearing up for its 24th year in St. Mary’s County, from July 12 to 14, 2024. This award-winning event promises to blend soulful jazz performances with Maryland’s finest seafood, offering attendees a unique cultural experience along the picturesque Potomac River and the quaint town of Leonardtown.
The festival will launch on Friday, July 12, with a welcoming reception at the Inn at Leonardtown starting at 2 p.m., featuring music and light fare. A special jazz cruise is on the day’s agenda, where guests will be treated to live music by Marcus Mitchell alongside delicious seafood and drinks during a 2-hour sightseeing tour. The evening will culminate in a free concert by Casual Groove at the College of Southern Maryland in Leonardtown at 5 p.m., inviting attendees to explore the town’s culinary, artistic, and shopping offerings.
Saturday’s lineup at the St. Clement’s Island Museum promises non-stop entertainment against the serene backdrop of the Potomac River. Starting at 1 p.m. with local favorite Latrice Carr, the day will see performances by Marcus Mitchell and Joi Carter, before jazz sensation Julian Vaughan takes the stage at 5:30 p.m. Festival-goers can enjoy a diverse array of food vendors, free water taxi rides, museum tours, and exclusive festival memorabilia, including a music poster commemorating this year’s event. The festivities will extend into the night with an after-party at Brudergarten at 10 p.m.
The festival weekend concludes on Sunday, July 14, with a day for visitors to relax and enjoy the charm of downtown Leonardtown. The Port of Leonardtown Winery will host jazz music, food, and tastings of their award-winning wines alongside exclusive jazz cruises on Breton Bay.
With the event drawing nearly 1,000 jazz enthusiasts annually, the festival has cemented its reputation for showcasing Maryland’s culinary and musical talents. Attendees from afar are encouraged to take advantage of special festival hotel packages, offering a comprehensive experience of the weekend’s activities. Tickets, VIP access, and hotel packages are available through the festival’s official website and Facebook page, promising easy access to festival news and updates.
The festival offers a platform for renowned jazz artists and local culinary delights and supports a noble cause. Proceeds will benefit the Friends of St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums’ mission to support local museums and historic sites. This initiative is backed by major partners, including the Friends of St. Clement’s Island & Piney Point Museums, the St. Mary’s County Museum Division, the St. Mary’s County Arts Council, and numerous Leonardtown businesses.
For more information and promotional videos or to purchase tickets, visit www.PotomacJazzFest.com. This year’s Potomac Jazz & Seafood Festival is not just an event but a vibrant celebration of jazz, heritage, and community spirit in the heart of Maryland.
