Selby Avenue JazzFest 2025: Free Live Jazz in St. Paul’s Rondo/Summit-U

Looking for a day of great music, tasty eats, and neighborhood pride? Head to Selby Avenue JazzFest on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Selby & Milton in St. Paul. It is free, family-friendly, and packed with performances, food vendors, artisan booths, and kids activities from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM.

Check out the event website here: https://selbyavejazzfest.com/

Dates at a Glance

  • Friday, Sept 12, 5:00–8:00 PM: “Jazz, Tech, and The Future: Shaping the Sound of Now” masterclass at Walker West Music Academy.

  • Saturday, Sept 13, 11:00 AM–7:30 PM: Main festival at Selby & Milton, hosted by T Mychael Rambo. FREE admission.

  • Sunday, Sept 14, 3:00 PM: Free special masterclass with Cory Henry at Walker West Music Academy.

Saturday Music Schedule

Stage times for Sept 13 (subject to change):

  • 11:00–11:40 AM — Selby Avenue Brass Band, traditional New Orleans-style procession

  • 12:15–1:00 PM — Walker West Instructors & Student Jazz Ensemble

  • 1:30–2:30 PM — Capri Big Band

  • 3:00–3:15 PM — Sponsor announcements

  • 3:30–4:30 PM — Ashley DeBose

  • 5:00–6:00 PM — LA Buckner & Big Homie

  • 6:30–7:30 PM — Jamecia Bennett

Tip: A community “Flash Mob Band” kicks things off at 11:30 AM. Horn and string players can download the sheet music and just show up to play.

Bonus: Cory Henry in the House

This year features a free masterclass with Grammy winner Cory Henry on Sunday at 3 PM. Seating is limited and interest is high, so plan ahead.

Where It Happens

Intersection: Selby Avenue & Milton Street, in St. Paul’s historic Summit-University (Rondo) neighborhood.

Parking: Free street parking throughout the neighborhood, plus the JJ Hill Montessori Magnet School lot at Selby & Oxford.

Accessibility: Handicap parking east of Chatsworth near the back of the stage, a drop-off zone at Milton & Hague, and dedicated space to the left of the stage for wheelchair users.

Why Go

  • It is free and truly community-driven

  • All-ages fun with kids activities and a welcoming vibe

  • Local food and artisan vendors alongside a full day of live jazz

  • A meaningful celebration rooted in the Rondo/Summit-U neighborhood

Quick FAQ

How much are tickets?
Admission is free.

What time should I arrive?
Music starts at 11:00 AM on Saturday. Arrive early for easier parking and to catch the opening procession.

Where is the masterclass?
Walker West Music Academy, 650 Marshall Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104.

If You Go

  • Bring a lawn chair or blanket

  • Come hungry and try a few vendors

  • Explore nearby businesses along Selby

  • Stay for the evening headliners

Check out the event website here: https://selbyavejazzfest.com/