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.

VIP Passes and Experiences | NoMad Jazz Festival New York

F.A.Q.

Will the purchase of my pass support the NoMad Jazz Festival?
Yes! All proceeds from VIP pass sales directly support the 2026 NoMad Jazz Festival, helping to keep the event free and open to the public. Your purchase plays a vital role in bringing world-class music and community programming to NoMad — thank you for your support!

Is NoMad Jazz Festival rain or shine?
Yes, the festival is rain or shine. Performances may be delayed in the event of inclement weather, but the show will go on whenever safely possible.

Can I get a refund if the festival is cancelled or rescheduled?
All VIP passes are considered donations in support of the 2026 NoMad Jazz Festival. As such, they are non-refundable, even in the case of cancellation or rescheduling.

Is my VIP pass transferable?
Yes, VIP passes are transferable. If you’re unable to attend, please email us at info@nomadjazzfestival.com with the name and email address of the new guest so we can update the list in advance.

How will I be notified of any last-minute festival changes?
Last minute changes will be posted in real time via the NoMad Jazz Festival Instagram (@nomadjazzfestival)

Can I purchase a VIP pass for my child?
Absolutely! There is no age limit on who can enjoy the VIP experience. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Where is VIP Seating located?
VIP seating is weather dependent and may shift based on the final location of the main stage. In some cases, seating may flank the stage rather than being directly in front of it.

Melody, Groove, and Encore Day Pass holders will have access to a reserved VIP seating area. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

When should I arrive to secure my VIP chair?
While your VIP pass includes access to a reserved chair, seating is unassigned and first-come, first-served within the VIP sections.

Check-in hours:
Friday, August 7: 5 PM (seating opens at this time)
Saturday, August 8: 11 AM (seating opens at this time

Where do I claim the perks of my pass?
Check-in at The NoMad Alliance Information Tent located around the southern fountain in Madison Square Park. Upon check in, VIP pass holders will collect all the perks associated with your VIP pass. Our team will be there to answer any questions about the festival and your benefits.

Tell me more about the Festival Afterparty on August 8th
Encore VIP pass holders are exclusively invited to the official NoMad Jazz Festival Afterparty on Saturday, August 8th at 9 PM (following the final peformance on the mainstage in Madison Square Park).

The location and full details will be shared via email with eligible pass holders closer to the date (but you can bet it will be in NoMad!). Please note that only invited pass holders will be admitted — no additional guests will be allowed.

While some festival artists may attend, their presence is optional. The invitation does not include complimentary drinks, so please plan accordingly.

VIP Passes and Experiences

VIP ENCORE Weekend Pass

VIP GROOVE Weekend Pass

VIP MELODY Weekend Pass

F.A.Q.