For over a decade, the Scottsdale Jazz Festival has been an integral part of our city’s cultural fabric. Held annually in celebration of UNESCO’s International Jazz Day, it is more than just an event—it’s a tradition that unites our community, attracts tourism, and elevates Scottsdale’s reputation as a vibrant arts destination.

The Scottsdale Civic Center has been the heart and soul of the festival, offering a location that is both symbolic and accessible. Thousands of attendees and world-class performers—local and international—have come to know and love this setting. Jazz, an art form rooted in creativity and freedom, deserves a stage that reflects its spirit.

The festival’s timing—late April—was chosen not only to align with International Jazz Day but also to keep seasonal visitors, known as “snowbirds,” in Scottsdale for an additional two weeks. This intentional scheduling benefits local businesses, restaurants, and hotels, extending the tourism season and generating economic impact at a time when most other significant events have wrapped up.

The festival’s track record speaks for itself: in 2022, we sold out with 1,300 attendees; in 2023, just under 3,500 people attended the two-day event; and in 2024, the box office hit capacity before the event even began—requiring the Mayor at the time to order that walk-up guests be admitted. Even in 2025, despite challenges, over 1,000 attendees came to celebrate. These numbers prove the event’s strong draw and value to Scottsdale’s economy.

Recently, the CEO of Scottsdale Arts has stated reasons for removing the festival from the Civic Center—reasons we believe are inaccurate and addressable. One claim is that the venue is losing money because of the rental discount offered to this nonprofit. However, given that April’s heat already deters most outdoor events, it is unlikely that the Civic Center is turning away other high-revenue bookings during this period. Instead, the Scottsdale Jazz Festival brings in thousands of attendees during a time of year when few other major events are held, creating business for local vendors and keeping the downtown area vibrant.

There are practical solutions that can meet any concerns without dismantling a decade-long tradition. Sponsorships, improved logistics, stronger collaboration, and better communication between festival organizers, Scottsdale Arts, and city officials could ensure continued success right where it belongs.

This festival is not only a cultural gem—it is an economic driver. International Jazz Day is celebrated in over 190 countries, promoting peace, diversity, and mutual understanding through music. The Scottsdale Jazz Festival brings those values home, while also connecting Scottsdale to producers and festivals in Montreal, Paris, Panama City, and Mexico—building tourism and positioning Old Town as an international destination.

We call on the City Manager and the Mayor's office to work with festival founder and producer William “Doc” Jones to preserve this tradition at the Civic Center. By doing so, we honor the music, the community, and the cultural excellence Scottsdale is known for. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yRt9eYaKhM

Please sign and share this petition to keep the Scottsdale Jazz Festival at its rightful home and safeguard a legacy for future generations. We are not asking for a donation, but if you choose to go to jazzdayaz.com and make it there.