Rosslyn Jazz Fest: 2025 In-Depth Guide

Feel the pulse of the jazz scene in Washington, DC, just across the Potomac, when the 33rd Rosslyn Jazz Festival returns to Arlington’s Gateway Park this September. This free, family-friendly gathering has, since 1991, transformed a quiet riverside green space into the region’s largest outdoor jazz house, drawing thousands who come early, stake out a blanket, and let riffs roll beneath the late-summer sky.

Whether you’re chasing complex chord changes or just catching up with friends, the Rosslyn Jazz Festival promises a soundtrack for every vibe.

Gateway Park: A Natural Stage

Let the skyline be your backdrop and the lawn your dance floor.

Nestled at 1300 Langston Boulevard, Gateway Park sits beside the Key Bridge, blending river views with Rosslyn’s gleaming towers. Gently sloping lawns create natural stadium seating, and perimeter shade trees plus accessible restrooms and water stations make the venue comfortable for every visitor—blanket loungers, stroller pushers, and fold-chair fans alike.

The park is fully wheelchair accessible (except one entrance), and all ages are welcome. Well-behaved pets on leashes are allowed, making it a rare festival where even Fido can feel the swing.

Save the Date & Time

Mark your calendar, cue the horns—September is set to swing.

• Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
• Time: 1:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (Gates open at 12:00 p.m.)
• Location: Gateway Park, 1300 Langston Blvd, Arlington, VA
• Headliner: Grammy-nominated Southern Avenue at 6:15 p.m.

Pro Tip: Use the Rideshare drop-zone at Fort Myer Drive (opens at 11:30 a.m.) to skip road closures and shorten your walk.

Who Should Bring Their Groove?

Whether you’re five or furry, this fest plays to every kind of crowd:

• Families: Explore the KidJam zone with crafts and activities.
• Date-Night Duos: Sip kombucha or craft brews beneath string lights.
• Audiophiles: Get front-row to virtuosic jazz solos.
• Casual Listeners: Chill in the beer and wine garden between sets.
• Pet Owners: Leashed pets are welcome throughout the park.

Accessibility: All main entrances are wheelchair accessible. Ear protection recommended for kids due to loud music levels.

What Makes This Fest Sing

Brass, soul, gospel, and groove—this lineup hits every note of awesome.

2025 Lineup Highlights

• Southern Avenue: Grammy-nominated Memphis-based group fusing blues, soul, and gospel.
• New Breed Brass Band: New Orleans ensemble blending second line with hip-hop and R&B.
• The Sensational Barnes Brothers: Gospel soul bridging generations.
• Son Cubano Subterraneo: Cuban Son revival group led by Gerardo Contino.

Bonus Experiences

• Browse a curated vinyl market
• Join live percussion workshops
• Play lawn games with friends or kids
• Grab bites from local food trucks and pop-up bars
• Shop for limited-edition festival merch

Parking Made Easy

Skip the jam and slide into easy access—parking or Metro, you’re covered.

• Rosslyn Gateway Garage: Around $10 weekend flat rate, 3-minute walk from the park (1962 N Moore St)
• Overflow Garages: Hyatt Centric and 1500 Wilson Blvd (Around $11–$12)
• Street Parking: After 6 p.m., meters are just around $3 flat
• Metro Access: Rosslyn Station (Orange/Blue/Silver lines) is just two blocks from the park

Go from Museums to Moonlight in One Easy Plan

Why stop at one afternoon when you can build an entire DC escape?

With Tripster, bundle your jazz fest day with Arlington attractions such as the Arlington National Cemetery and Arlington hotel stays—all in one smooth booking. Enjoy exclusive discounts, flexible vacation packages, and 24/7 support to make your festival weekend hassle-free.

Book your weekend now and let the music lead the way!