The John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival is a celebration of one of the most influential musicians of all time, John Coltrane. Held in High Point, NC, Coltrane’s hometown, the Festival infuses his legacy throughout the city. This year marks the milestone 15th celebration. Held annually over Labor Day Weekend, the Festival invites music lovers from across the country to “Catch the Trane to 15” for an unforgettable weekend of world-class jazz, blues, R&B, and cutting-edge music performances.
Set against the backdrop of a serene lake and lush surroundings, the Festival’s relaxed atmosphere is enhanced by unique craft and food vendors, all combining to create a warm community ambiance that honors the enduring legacy, innovation, and spirit of one of jazz’s most influential artists.
The Festival is the signature project of Friends of John Coltrane, Inc., a High Point nonprofit dedicated to celebrating Coltrane’s legacy through world-class live music and music education.
Alongside the Festival, our Masterclass Series and Student Instrument Contest invest directly in the next generation of musicians — providing instruments and educational opportunities to talented student musicians. In the lead-up to Festival weekend, we also host community concerts that build excitement and connect the Festival to the wider Triad area.
None of this happens without a community behind it. Over the years, we’ve engaged leaders across High Point’s business, arts, civic, and nonprofit sectors — all in service of a shared belief: that Coltrane’s legacy deserves to be honored not just in memory, but in action, by putting instruments in young hands and world-class music on our stage.
We’re proud of how far the Festival has come, and grateful to everyone who’s helped build it — audiences, artists, volunteers, and donors alike. Thank you for visiting.
We hope you’ll join us this Labor Day Weekend.
