Jazz has a timeless way of stirring the soul, its smooth melodies and rhythmic grooves create the perfect soundtrack for summer evenings. And the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), one of the city’s largest and most iconic museums, is bringing back its beloved Jazz night series this summer. These free outdoor concerts spotlight some of L.A.’s finest jazz musicians and offer a memorable way to experience live music.
Beginning May 2025, Angelenos and visitors alike can catch live jazz under the stars every Friday at LACMA’s Smidt Welcome Plaza, just behind the iconic Urban Light installation.
LACMA states that their overall mission with their events and art programming “is to serve the public through the collection, conservation, exhibition, and interpretation of significant works of art from a broad range of cultures and historical periods, and through the translation of these collections into meaningful educational, aesthetic, intellectual, and cultural experiences for the widest array of audiences.”
Summer 2025 LACMA Jazz Schedule:
- Friday, July 18: Danny Janklow + Elevation Band
- Friday, July 25: Syndee Winters Sings Lena Horne
- Friday, August 1: Ernie Watts Quartet
- Friday, August 8: Gengis Don & The Empire
- Friday, August 15: Grant Geissman Band
- Friday, August 29: Trevor Ware & Positive People featuring Sidney Jacobs
Their Friday night jazz starts at 6 p.m. and is completely free to the public. No tickets or reservations are required, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or low chairs to enjoy the music comfortably.
Keep in mind that seating at the Smidt Welcome Plaza along with picnic space is limited, and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. This incredible showcase is made possible in part by a grant from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.
Additionally, L.A. County residents can enjoy free museum admission after 3 p.m. on weekdays, making it easy to explore the galleries and make it a full day before the evening’s performance. For more details and updates on the full schedule, you can visit LACMA’s official event calendar.
📍 Location:LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
📆 When: Fridays at 6PM
🎟️ Ticket info: Free admission
Edited by Sofía Delpueche & Taylor Henderson.