The Monterey County Fairgrounds have had their fair share of music festivals, from the seminal Monterey Pop Festival in 1967 to California Roots in the present day. But the true fixture at this 20 acre, oak-shaded stretch of land is Monterey Jazz Festival, returning in 2023 from September 22 to 24.
Started in 1958, Monterey Jazz Festival is the world’s oldest continuously-running jazz festival. Here, you not only see artists on stage, but walking around the grounds (keep an eye out for Clint Eastwood, he’s also known to frequent the event). This year, Snarky Puppy, Thundercat and Herbie Hancock lead the lineup, which fuses sounds both old and new.
Weather in Monterey is known to fluctuate in September, but the festival still welcomes first-time and returning visitors with warmth. People are known to patronize Monterey Jazz Festival year after year, making it feel more like a family reunion than other music events. When you aren’t catching a set at one of the outdoor stages, be sure to check out the food vendors, selling everything from soul food to Jamaican cuisine, and Yamaha’s instrument petting zoo, where kids can play with an assortment of real instruments.
The Specs
- About 35,000 people are expected to be at the festival each day.
- 3 day arena tickets start at $285 and include full access to the grounds stages and all 14 performances at the Jimmy Lyons Stage.
- 3 day grounds tickets start at $195 for adults and do not include access to the Jimmy Lyons Stage.
- Single day arena and grounds tickets are also available for purchase, and the full breakdown can be found here.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to California here.
FAQs
Is festival re-entry allowed? Re-entry is only allowed when you exit through Gates 3, 5 and 10. There, you will be given a wristband for re-entry.
Can I bring food and drinks inside the festival grounds? Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the festival grounds. However, each person is allowed to bring one water in a stainless steel or non-breakable, individual use bottle.
What time do the festival gates open? The gates open at 3 pm on Friday and 11 am on Saturday and Sunday.