The 23rdAnnual Central Avenue Jazz Festival takes place on Saturday and Sunday, July 29-30. The free, two day community event features live musical performances, food, merchandise and other vendors, art, and broad community wellness information resources. Featuring more than two dozen acts, this year’s jazz festival continues its tradition of paying homage to the musical and cultural history of Central Avenue. This is one of my favorite summer events.
This festival is organized by Los Angeles City Councilman Curren D. Price, Jr. and the New 9thDistrict in conjunction with the Coalition for Responsible Community Development in partnership with Concerned Citizens of South Central Los Angeles. Sponsors include the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, Arts Development Fee and other public and private organizations. Visit the 23rdAnnual Central Avenue Jazz Festival website for the line-up of performers and other information, including how to be a volunteer, vendor, exhibitor, or sponsor.
Also, another homage to Central Avenue history, the stanchions and guidebook of the new Angels Walk LA heritage trail (from 23rdStreet to 45th Street) are scheduled for dedication before the end of 2018. This self-guided walking and public transportation trail commemorates prominent figures, organizations, and culture of the old Central Avenue hub of African American life in Los Angeles during the Jim Crow era, and the diverse community that it is today. Alison Rose Jefferson and Martha Groves did the research and writing of the stanchions and guidebook texts for this project. More information on the new trail dedication date will be announced by the Angel Walk LA organization soon.
Central Avenue street sign near one of the stages of the annual jazz festival.