1 Day. 4 Stages. 10 Performances.
Get ready for a day filled with world-class music, family fun, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to dance. On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the third annual Tilles Jazz Fest returns to Nassau County, bringing an exciting lineup of acclaimed jazz artists and interactive activities to the beautiful Long Island University campus in Brookville.
Produced by Tilles Center for the Performing Arts in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, this one-day celebration transforms the LIU campus into a vibrant festival experience. With 1 Day. 4 Stages. 10 Performances., Tilles Jazz Fest offers music lovers an unforgettable opportunity to experience an incredible variety of live jazz throughout the day.
Beginning at 1 p.m. and continuing into the evening, the festival features performances, family activities, food vendors, and more. Best of all, children under 12 attend free, making it an ideal summer outing for families.
A Lineup of Exceptional Jazz Performances
This year’s festival features an impressive roster of artists representing a wide range of jazz styles and influences.
The evening culminates with a headline performance by the internationally acclaimed Buena Vista Orchestra, carrying forward the rich musical traditions of Cuba made famous around the world through the Buena Vista Social Club legacy.
Additional performers include:
- Kal Ferretti Quartet Celebrates Miles Davis’ Centennial
- Hot Jazz All-Stars
- Bobby Sanabria & Ascensión
- Dan & Claudia Zanes: Bluesy Beats and Jazzy Treats
- Ruby Laks
- William Hill III Trio
- Chico Pinheiro Solo Guitar
- Student Ensembles
- Additional artists to be announced
Whether you’re a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply looking to discover something new, you’ll find performances throughout the day that celebrate the energy, creativity, and spirit of jazz.
Fun for the Whole Family
Tilles Jazz Fest is designed to be much more than a concert — it’s a family-friendly festival experience.
Families can visit the Swingin’ Kidz Zone, where children can enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, music-inspired games, and interactive activities led by Tilles Center’s professional teaching artists.
Young music fans can also explore the popular Instrument Petting Zoo, where they’ll have the chance to see, touch, and try a variety of instruments. Kids can even create their own musical instrument to take home while participating in activities like Jazz Simon Says, freeze dance, and other hands-on experiences.
Families will also enjoy a special performance from beloved children’s musicians Dan and Claudia Zanes, bringing a jazzy twist to their signature family-friendly style.
Best of all, children under 12 receive free admission, making it easy for families to spend the day enjoying live music and activities together.
More Than Music
Beyond the performances, visitors can spend the day exploring local artisan vendors, enjoying offerings from food trucks, and relaxing on the scenic LIU Brookville campus.
Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket, gather with friends and family, and spend the day enjoying great music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Those looking to brush up on their dance moves can join a free swing dance lesson and experience the joy of dancing to live jazz!
Ticket Options
Visitors can choose from several ticket options:
Day Pass
Includes admission to the festival grounds and all daytime performances and activities.
All-Event Pass
Includes access to the festival grounds, all daytime events, and reserved seating for the evening headline performance by Buena Vista Orchestra.
Evening Headliner Ticket
Reserved seating for the Buena Vista Orchestra performance only.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a devoted jazz fan, looking for a unique family outing, or simply searching for a memorable summer experience on Long Island, Tilles Jazz Fest offers an unforgettable day of music, culture, and community.
Mark your calendar, pack your picnic basket and blanket, and get ready to swing into summer at one of Nassau County’s premier arts and entertainment events.
