SOUND+SOUL+ROOTS
MAY 15 + 16, 2026 | FINLAY PARK | COLUMBIA, SC
FREE + open weekend cultural takeover in Columbia’s revitalized downtown park.
WHY YOU CAN’T MISS THIS FEST
The South’s Most Sophisticated Weekend. Jazz + Roots + Soul.
If you’re looking for the next major jazz destination in the South, you need to be in Columbia this May 15-16. ColaJazz has spent nearly a decade bringing icons like Wynton Marsalis and Kenny Garrett to our stage, and this year’s Jazz + Roots expansion is our most ambitious yet. We’re pairing heavyweights like Endea Owens & the Cookout, Lucia, and Martin Bejerano: Reimagining Prince with a 'Roots' movement that explores how jazz fuels blues, soul, and even Celtic folk. It’s an elite musical curation in a stunning outdoor setting—world-class artistry without the world-class ticket price.
2026 LINEUP
FRIDAY, MAY 15
SODA CITY BRASS BAND - 5:30P
Martin Bejerano presents:
THE PURPLE PROJECT: REIMAGINING PRINCE - 6:30P
SYR - 8P
SATURDAY, MAY 16
BRITTANY TURNIPSEED - 1P
WILLIE BRADLEY - 2:45P
FOLDEROL - 4:30P
LUCIA - 6:15P
ENDEA OWENS & the COOKOUT! - 8P
FREE + OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
ARTISTS, COMMUNITY, CULTURE.
ColaJazz IMPACT
15K+ Kids Reached Annually
ROBUST EDUCATION PROGRAMS
50+ EVENTS YEAR-ROUND
NO COST JAZZ LESSONS
10 YEARS SUPPORTING THE ARTS
$100K+ PAID TO LOCAL ARTISTS
ColaJazz runs on community rhythm. Together, we fuel a nonprofit mission to grow a soulful culture through live performance, education, and year-round programs across the Midlands.
BECOME A SPONSOR
Fuel Education.
Drive Economic Vitality.
Our sponsors keep the ColaJazz Jazz Fest FREE and accessible to everyone, creating an inclusive celebration where world-class jazz brings our community together.
Beyond the festival, your support fuels our educational outreach in underserved neighborhoods. Together, we break down barriers, spark creativity, and enrich Columbia’s cultural landscape.
VENUE MAP
Quick Guide to the Best Options:
Arsenal Hill Garage (1812 Lincoln St): This is the absolute closest garage. It’s right across the street from the park's west side and usually has visitor parking on the lower level.
Taylor Street Garage (1600 Assembly St): Located just a block away from the southeast corner of the park. It’s a very easy, flat walk to the entrance.
PJ Cannon Garage (1227 Taylor St): A slightly longer walk but a reliable backup if the closer ones are full.
Street Parking: You can often find metered spots along Gadsden St and Laurel St (which, as you correctly noted, is on the North side of the park).
Helpful Parking Tips:
Check the Meters: Street parking is typically free on weekends and after 6:00 PM on weekdays, but always double-check the signs or the "Passport Parking" app.
Event Days: If there is a major festival at Finlay, the Arsenal Hill garage can fill up fast, so the Taylor Street Garage is often your best "stress-free" bet.
DON’T MISS A BEAT!
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