What is the NoMad Jazz Festival?

The NoMad Jazz Festival is an annual celebration of music, culture, and community, showcasing world-class jazz artists alongside emerging talent. The festival is produced and presented by The NoMad Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to an ever-better NoMad. It takes place in partnership with the Jazz Gallery, Flatiron NoMad Partnership, and Madison Square Park Conservancy and brings the neighborhood alive with performances that honor jazz’s rich heritage while pushing its creative boundaries.

Where does the NoMad Jazz Festival take place?

The NoMad Jazz Festival takes place in the historic NoMad neighborhood of New York City, known for its iconic architecture, creative energy, and cultural depth. Concerts and events unfold across NoMad and Flatiron’s public spaces, stages, and partner venues, including mainstage performances in and around Madison Square Park.

Why should I attend the NoMad Jazz Festival?

The NoMad Jazz Festival is free to everyone and offers a one-of-a-kind experience where music, community, and the spirit of New York converge. Whether you’re a lifelong jazz fan or new to the genre, you’ll enjoy unforgettable performances, discover new artists, and connect with NoMad, the quintessential live-work-play neighborhood.

Is the NoMad Jazz Festival open to everyone?

Yes! The NoMad Jazz Festival is free for everyone and welcomes all – residents, visitors, families, and music lovers of every kind. There’s something for people of all ages to enjoy.

Who has performed at The NoMad Jazz Festival?

In its inaugural year, NoMad Jazz Festival welcomed over 170 artists across 21 free events, and activated 15 community venues. The Mainstage lineup curated by The Jazz Gallery’s Rio Sakairi included Lizz Wright, Ravi Coltrane, Michael Mayo, The Brandee Younger Trio, Roy Hargrove Big Band, Davin Ryu Trio, Arta Jēkabsone, Caracas Trio and Melissa Almague. Family programming included The KongoNola Project presented by Goussy Celestin’s Ayita Brass, ABCirque, Lucy Kalantari & the Jazz Cats, and cultural programming with Asase Yaa.

What is the NoMad Jazz Festival Concert Series?

In 2026, The NoMad Jazz Festival introduced the NoMad Jazz Festival Concert Series, extending its mission beyond Festival Week and into a year-round offering. Leading up to the free summer Festival, the NoMad Jazz Festival Concert Series features a curated mix of free and ticketed performances, with proceeds supporting the free, week-long NoMad Jazz Festival. Partners and planned venues for the NoMad Jazz Festival Concert Series include The Jazz Gallery, Baruch Performing Arts Center, and Jazz on the NoMad Piazza. This expansion deepens the NoMad Jazz Festival’s commitment to accessibility, artist support, and neighborhood activation, bringing established and upcoming jazz artists into the community throughout the year.

World Arts East | NoMad Jazz Festival New York

2026 Edition

Madison Square Park — Saturday Aug 8 3:00PM & 5:00PM

World Arts East

Dance and Music Workshop

World Arts East brings an interactive dance and music workshop for all ages to the 2026 NoMad Jazz Festival. Get ready to experience Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latin rhythms, dance, and joy!

Lead by teaching artists and performers of World Arts East and SambaSalsa, this fun program is inspired by Cuba’s jazz, folkloric, and popular dances from the 1960’s to the current day.

Each 40-minute session begins with a dance performance and live musical accompaniment, followed by an introduction to the dances and rhythms featured in the performance. Experience elements of Cuba’s Mozambique, Pílon, Son Cuban/Salsa, and of course the Conga! Discover why Latin Jazz, Salsa, and Afro-Caribbean dance and rhythms always put a swing in your step and a smile on your face.

Interested in continuing the experience? Text World Arts East to 347.361.1661 or email worldartseast@gmail.com to receive a special offer for your first class.

NoMad Jazz Festival Artists

World Arts East

Dance and Music Workshop