The 20th Annual Berks Jazz Festival
For the past 20 years, Reading, Pa, has been home to the popular Berks Jazz Festival. Every spring, the city of Reading hosts this 9 day music festival for all members of the family to enjoy. Usually starting in March, this festival has some of the hottest jazz acts today and many legendary artists from years past.
When & Where
The Berks Jazz Festival features local and national artists that pay homage to legendary performers like Grover Washington, Jr., Les Paul and Steely Dan. Most shows are scheduled for evenings or night performances and tickets range from 15 to 40 dollars per show. Venues for the shows are spread throughout the city and include locations like the Abraham Lincoln Hotel Jazz Club, Miller Center for the Arts and the Scottish Rite Cathedral.
Other Events
Throughout the festival, there are many non-ticketed shows for the whole family. Showtimes range from afternoon to late evening, and take place at restuarants and community centers throughout the city. Whether you want to take in a live show, visit the community's historic sites or sample the city's nightlife, this festival provides activities for all areas of interest.
Ticket Information
Tickets are available through the Sovereign Center Box Office, located at 7th and Penn Street in Reading or at TicketMaster. The box office opens at noon the day of all performances so you can purchase your tickets the same day or you can call ahead to make a reservation. More information is available by contacting the Sovereign Center at 618-898-7469.
Where to Stay
Reading, Pa, supports its local businesses. Whether you want an economical stay for your trip or you're looking for more luxurious accomodations, Reading has hotels and inns for every need. With several options available in and around Reading, finding a place to stay is easy. For a full list of available hotels and to make a reservation, visit the Berks Jazz Festival Lodging Infomation page at berksjazzfest.com/wheretostay.htm.
History
Started in 1990, the Berks Jazz Festival has hosted such legendary jazz musicians as Wynton Marsallis, John Tesh, Bela Fleck and the Flecktones and many more. The event began as a way to promote fine arts and entertainment and has since become the leading jazz festival in the nation. Visitors from across the country make the annual trek to see this landmark event and the members of the Berks Art Council also provide art shows and awards ceremonies throughout the event.
