Jazz In The Park returns with a new format for 2025

By Allen Halas OnMilwaukee Staff Writer Published Apr 30, 2025 at 8:01 AM

Jazz in the Park is coming back to Cathedral Square Park, but this year, several changes are coming to one of Milwaukee's longest running concert series.

Beginning this year, concerts will now take place every other Thursday, from June 5th through September 25th. While the name stays the same, jazz will only be part of this year's programming.

A more expansive lineup allows for indie rock, brass bands, salsa and more to take the stage in Cathedral Square Park. Across eight shows, this year will feature sets from the Orquestra Salsa Ayala Band, Chris Haise Band, a tribute to Aretha Franklin and more. It's a refresh on the Jazz In The Park concept that looks to bring in a wider array of music lovers.

“Jazz in the Park has been a staple of downtown Milwaukee’s summer scene for more than three decades,” said Eddie Sturkey, executive director of East Town Association. “This year, we’re introducing a fresh format that blends together a broader mix of music, local talent, and marketplace experiences. We're eager to grow alongside our city while keeping the spirit of community at the heart of everything we do.”

In addition to the return of the concerts, the Jazz in the Park Side Stage Experiences brought to you by Johnson Financial Group and OnMilwaukee will return for 2025 to benefit East Town Association. Guests can reserve a picnic table next to the stage for $100. Each package includes one bottle of wine, a charcuterie board from Lupi & Iris, a selection of desserts, and access to a private restroom. Tables seat up to six people, and only five packages are available each night.

Also new this year is a marketplace of local vendors. Starting at 5 p.m., attendees can shop for handmade goods, small-batch snacks, and local art around the square. The marketplace will remain open throughout the evening. Applications are open for interested vendors.

While guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets as always, a stricter carry-in policy will be in place this year, with the intention of being able to support the continuation of the concert series. Think of it this way: every bottle of wine purchased helps fund the production that goes into the East Side staple, so you can toast one another in the name of supporting the arts.