Salem, Massachusetts may be best known for witches, ghosts, and all things spooky, but the city also has a pretty amazing festival scene. Several cultural, historical, and food-related events take place here annually. In my opinion, the summer Salem Jazz and Soul Festival is one of the best. If you are a fan of live music, you won’t want to miss it!

The festival started in 2007 and has been going strong ever since. It is a free, all-day event that features jazz, blues, funk, and soul music.
Andrew Malone/flickr
This year's line-up includes artists such as the Diane Blue All Stars, Krewe de Skunk, and the Salem High School Jazz Band.
The festival takes place on August 19th from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. at Salem Willows Park. This historic park was once the site of big dance halls where big band legends used to turn out classic jazz tunes.
Photo by Kimberly Falchek
The seaside “Willows” is still a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, especially one filled with great music. There are arcades, rides, restaurants, and a beach on the premises.

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The annual Salem Jazz and Soul Festival is sponsored by a non-profit organization of the same name (Salem Jazz and Soul Festival). Their motto is “Great Music for a Greater Cause.” Along with this main festival, they put on several smaller concerts and events throughout the year. Their impressive fundraising efforts support local music education programs.
Andrew Malone/flickr
They have raised over $55,000 so far.
The organization is exclusively run by a group of dedicated volunteers. They assist with the main festival as well as other smaller events and activities.
Salem Jazz and Soul Festival/Facebook
This year's festival promises to be the best yet! Along with great music, the festival will also feature vendors, a beer tent, mini-performances, and educational workshops. Be sure to bring a chair or blanket with you to sit on.
Salem Jazz and Soul Festival/Facebook
And don't forget to bring your dancing shoes!

Have you ever attended this musical event? Please tell us about your experience. More information about the festivities including a complete lineup of artists can be found on the Salem Jazz and Soul Festival website and Salem Jazz and Soul Festival Facebook page.

If you are traveling to Salem to attend the festival, why not make a weekend out of it and see all of the sites that Salem has to offer? The Peabody Essex Museum and The Salem Witch House are popular attractions. And be sure to visit the great restaurants. Dube’s Seafood is one of my favorites. A fantastic place to stay in the area is the historic Hawthorne Hotel.

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Featured Addresses
Salem Willows Park, 165 Fort Ave, Salem, MA 01970, USA