Jazz Fest Pompano Beach marks five years of free oceanfront music with lively weekend celebration along the coast

Pompano Beach, Florida – The sound of jazz is set to drift once again across the sands of South Florida as Jazz Fest Pompano Beach returns for a milestone weekend. Celebrating its fifth year, the free oceanfront festival is bringing a mix of national talent and local performers to the shoreline on Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19.

There is something almost cinematic about the setting—waves rolling in, the Atlantic breeze cutting through the afternoon heat, and live music filling the air. That combination has helped the event grow steadily over the years, transforming it from a small gathering into one of the region’s more anticipated springtime traditions.

Held along the beachfront in Broward County, the festival offers an easygoing alternative to larger, more crowded music events. It invites visitors to slow down, spread out a blanket or chair, and settle in for hours of live performances without the burden of ticket costs. In a time when major festivals often come with hefty price tags, that alone has become a defining feature.

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Saturday night’s lineup leans into contemporary and smooth jazz sounds, beginning with flutist Kim Scott. Known for her bright, melodic style and a string of Billboard-charting releases, Scott has built a reputation for delivering polished, engaging performances. Her set is expected to set the tone for the evening, blending modern influences with classic jazz elements.

Following her, saxophonist Richard Elliot will take the stage. With a career that stretches across decades, Elliot has become a familiar name among jazz audiences, particularly for his soulful tone and collaborations with groups like Tower of Power. His presence adds a layer of experience and depth to the lineup.

The night will close with Brian Culbertson, a multi-instrumentalist whose shows often blur the line between concert and celebration. Known for fusing jazz with funk and R&B, Culbertson brings an upbeat, energetic style that tends to draw crowds to their feet.

Sunday’s schedule continues the momentum but takes a slightly different turn. One of the more unique acts of the weekend, The Purple Project, will offer a jazz-inspired take on the music of Prince. Led by Latin Grammy-nominated pianist Martin Bejerano, the performance promises reinterpretations rather than imitation—reworking familiar songs into something new and unexpected.

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Later in the evening, saxophonist Walter Beasley will deliver his signature smooth jazz sound before the festival wraps up with Ghost-Note, a funk-fusion group known for high-energy, rhythm-driven performances designed for live audiences.

Beyond the headliners, the festival continues to emphasize its connection to the local music scene. A dedicated stage will feature South Florida artists such as Haley Cove, Nicole Kidd, Kizie The Violist, Inner Court, and the Fella Band. Their inclusion reflects the festival’s broader mission—not just to entertain, but to support and elevate regional talent.

That local presence has played a key role in the festival’s growth over the past five years. It creates a sense of community, giving audiences a chance to discover new voices while enjoying established acts in the same space.

Logistically, the event remains simple and accessible. It begins at 1 p.m. each day at the Pompano Beach Fisher Family Pier, located at 222 North Pompano Beach Boulevard. Admission is free, though attendees are encouraged to register in advance. Guests are also advised to bring their own seating, whether that means beach chairs or blankets, to fully enjoy the oceanfront experience.

In many ways, Jazz Fest Pompano Beach has found its rhythm—not just musically, but as an event. It blends atmosphere, accessibility, and a carefully curated lineup into something that feels both relaxed and vibrant. As it marks its fifth anniversary, the festival continues to offer a simple promise: good music, open air, and a weekend that doesn’t ask much more than showing up and listening.