The Highland Area Partnership has announced that the 22nd Annual Highland Jazz and Blues Festival will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Columbia Park in Shreveport, Louisiana. The beloved community tradition will once again transform the park into a lively celebration of music, culture, and connection, drawing jazz and blues fans from across the region for what organizers describe as a funky party in the park.
Call for Musicians
As preparations begin, the festival is opening its call for musicians. Bands and solo artists are invited to apply for a chance to perform as part of a diverse lineup that highlights both established performers and emerging talent. Applications are available through the festival website, and the deadline to apply is March 6, 2026.
Student Poster Contest
The Highland Area Partnership is also bringing back its student poster contest, inviting 11th and 12th grade artists to capture the spirit of the festival through original design. The winning artwork will become the official souvenir festival poster and earn its creator a $500 cash prize along with media recognition. Entry rules and submission details are available online, and poster submissions are due by March 27, 2026.
Organizers encourage the community to mark their calendars and plan for a weekend filled with unforgettable performances and a tribute to the rich musical heritage of jazz and blues. Additional details, including sponsorship opportunities and festival updates, are available at www.highlandjazzandblues.org.
About Highland Jazz & Blues Festival
Launched in 2003, the Highland Jazz & Blues Festival has grown from a modest gathering of a handful of bands and 500 to 1,000 attendees into a major community event featuring three stages, nine bands, more than 60 vendors, and crowds of 10,000 music fans in Columbia Park. The annual festival is presented as a gift to the community by the Highland Area Partnership, a 501c3 arts and culture nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating and connecting the community through music, food, and the arts. Proceeds from poster and t shirt sales, beverages, donations, and sponsorships help ensure the festival returns year after year.
