How to Book the Five Points Jazz Festival Concert Denver

The Five Points Jazz Festival in Denver is more than just a series of musical performances—it’s a cultural landmark that celebrates the rich heritage of jazz in one of America’s most historic African American neighborhoods. Held annually in the heart of Denver’s Five Points district, this festival draws thousands of visitors from across the country, uniting music lovers, local artists, and community members under the shared love of jazz. From legendary headliners to emerging talent, the festival offers an immersive experience that blends live music, food, art, and history.

Booking your ticket to the Five Points Jazz Festival requires more than just clicking a button. With limited capacity, high demand, and a schedule that evolves each year, knowing how to navigate the process ensures you don’t miss out on the performances that matter most to you. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a longtime fan, this guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to securing your spot at the festival—along with insider tips, trusted tools, real-world examples, and answers to the most common questions.

This is not just a ticketing tutorial. It’s your complete handbook to experiencing the Five Points Jazz Festival with confidence, clarity, and cultural appreciation.

Step-by-Step Guide

Understand the Festival Structure and Schedule

Before you begin booking, take time to understand how the Five Points Jazz Festival is organized. The event typically spans two to three days in late June or early July and features multiple stages across the Five Points neighborhood. Performances are staggered throughout the day and evening, with free outdoor stages and ticketed indoor venues.

The festival includes:

• Free outdoor performances on 26th Avenue and Welton Street
• Ticketed concerts at historic venues like the historic Rossonian Hotel and the Denver Performing Arts Complex
• Family-friendly workshops and jazz history exhibits
• Local food vendors and artisan markets

Not all events require tickets. Many outdoor stages are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. However, if you want guaranteed seating for headliners or intimate performances, advance booking is essential. Review the official festival lineup and schedule—usually released in early April—so you can prioritize which acts you want to see.

Visit the Official Festival Website

The only reliable source for accurate ticketing information is the official Five Points Jazz Festival website. Avoid third-party resellers or unofficial social media pages that may charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets.

The official site is typically hosted at fivepointsjazzfestival.org. Bookmark this URL and check it regularly starting in March. The site will feature:

• The complete lineup with artist bios
• Detailed stage locations and set times
• Links to ticketing platforms
• Accessibility information and parking guides

Always verify you’re on the correct domain. Phishing sites often mimic the official look with slight misspellings like “fivepointsjazzfest.com” or “fivepointsjazzfestival.net.” Look for HTTPS in the URL and check for the festival’s official logo and contact information.

Create an Account on the Ticketing Platform

Once the festival announces its ticketing partner—usually Eventbrite, Ticketmaster, or a local Denver-based platform—you’ll need to create an account. This step is critical. Having an account pre-registered saves precious minutes during the ticket release.

To create an account:

1. Go to the ticketing page linked on the festival website
2. Click “Sign Up” or “Create Account”
3. Use a valid email address you check regularly
4. Set a strong password with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
5. Enable two-factor authentication if available
6. Verify your email address immediately

Pro tip: Use a desktop computer with a stable internet connection, not a mobile device. Desktop browsers handle high-traffic ticket sales more reliably. Clear your browser cache and cookies before the sale begins to prevent loading delays.

Set Alerts and Monitor Release Dates

Tickets for the Five Points Jazz Festival are released in phases:

• Early Access (March–April): Available to newsletter subscribers and past attendees
• General Public Sale (May): Open to everyone
• Last-Minute Releases (June): Unsold tickets or added shows

Sign up for the festival’s email newsletter on their homepage. This is the fastest way to receive notification when tickets go on sale. Many fans miss out because they wait until the day of the public sale to check.

Additionally, enable notifications on your calendar for the exact date and time of each release. Set alarms for 8:00 AM Mountain Time—the standard release window. Don’t rely on social media posts; they can be delayed or inaccurate.

Select Your Tickets Strategically

When tickets become available, act quickly but deliberately. Here’s how to choose wisely:

• Prioritize headliners: If you want to see a specific artist like Terri Lyne Carrington, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, or a local legend like Dianne Reeves, book those tickets first.
• Consider venue capacity: Indoor venues like the Rossonian Hotel seat fewer than 200 people. Tickets sell out in minutes.
• Check seating options: Some venues offer general admission, reserved seating, or VIP packages. VIP often includes early entry, exclusive merchandise, or meet-and-greets.
• Buy for the whole group at once: If attending with friends, ensure everyone is logged into the same account or coordinate purchases simultaneously to secure adjacent seats.

Don’t wait to compare prices. The festival does not offer dynamic pricing, so tickets remain the same price until sold out. There’s no advantage to waiting.

Complete the Purchase with Care

Once you’ve selected your tickets:

• Double-check the date, time, and venue
• Confirm the number of tickets
• Review the refund and transfer policy
• Enter payment details carefully
• Choose digital delivery (email or app) over physical mail

After payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a PDF ticket or QR code. Save this to your phone’s wallet (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) and take a screenshot as backup. Do not rely solely on email access during the festival day—network coverage in crowded areas can be unreliable.

Download the Official Festival App

Most years, the Five Points Jazz Festival launches a companion mobile app. This app serves as your real-time guide during the event. It includes:

• Live schedule updates and stage changes
• Interactive maps of the festival grounds
• Artist bios and set reminders
• Food vendor locations and menus
• Weather alerts and transit options

Download the app before the festival begins. Enable push notifications so you’re alerted to last-minute schedule changes, which are common due to weather or artist availability.

Prepare for Entry and Security

Most ticketed venues require digital ticket verification. Bring your phone fully charged. Some locations may also require photo ID to match the name on the ticket, especially for VIP packages.

Security protocols are strict but efficient. Prohibited items include:

• Large bags or backpacks (only small clutches allowed)
• Professional cameras or recording equipment
• Alcohol or outside food and beverages
• Weapons of any kind

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your show. Lines form quickly, and entry is processed in waves to avoid congestion.

Plan Your Transportation and Parking

Five Points is a walkable neighborhood, but parking is extremely limited. Avoid driving if possible. Recommended options:

• RTD Light Rail: The C Line stops at the Five Points Station, just a 5-minute walk from the main stages.
• Biking: Denver’s B-cycle stations are located near the festival perimeter. Lock your bike securely.
• Rideshare: Use Uber or Lyft. Designate a drop-off point on 26th or Welton Street to avoid traffic jams.
• Public Parking: If you must drive, use paid lots at the Denver Central Library or nearby garages. Avoid street parking—towing is common during the festival.

Consider staying overnight in the area. Several boutique hotels and Airbnbs are within walking distance. Book early—accommodations fill up months in advance.

Best Practices

Book Early, Even If You’re Not Sure

It’s better to secure a ticket and cancel later (if allowed) than to miss out. Many ticketing platforms offer flexible refund windows up to 72 hours before the event. Use this to your advantage. Book your top-choice shows immediately upon release, then adjust your schedule as the lineup solidifies.

Follow the Festival on Multiple Channels

Don’t rely on just one source. Follow the official Five Points Jazz Festival on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter). These platforms often share exclusive content: behind-the-scenes rehearsals, artist interviews, and last-minute ticket drops. Engagement on these channels can also give you early access to presales.

Know the Difference Between Free and Ticketed Events

Many assume the entire festival is free. While outdoor stages are open to all, the most sought-after performances happen indoors with limited seating. Always check the event listing for “Ticket Required” or “Free Admission” labels. Misunderstanding this can lead to disappointment.

Prepare for Weather

Denver’s June weather is unpredictable. Afternoon thunderstorms are common. Even if you’re attending an indoor show, outdoor stages and walking between venues mean you’ll be exposed to elements.

Bring:

• A compact, foldable rain jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks are common)
• A reusable water bottle (many locations offer free refill stations)
• Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat for daytime events

Respect the Cultural Legacy

The Five Points neighborhood is known as the “Harlem of the West” for its pivotal role in jazz history. Musicians like Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, and Duke Ellington once performed here. The festival honors this legacy.

Practice cultural mindfulness:

• Don’t treat the event like a backdrop for selfies
• Support local vendors and Black-owned businesses
• Listen actively—jazz is an art of improvisation and conversation
• Learn about the history before you go. Read up on the Rossonian Hotel’s legacy or the Five Points Jazz Walk

Connect With the Community

Join the festival’s online forums or Facebook groups. These communities share tips, swap tickets, and organize group transportation. You might even find a local host who offers guided walking tours of historic jazz landmarks.

Keep Records of Your Purchase

Save every email, screenshot, and confirmation number. If there’s a technical issue with your ticket, having documentation speeds up resolution. Take a photo of your digital ticket and store it in a cloud folder labeled “Five Points Jazz Festival 2025.”

Plan Your Day Strategically

Don’t try to see everything. Pick 3–4 must-see acts and leave room for spontaneous discoveries. Many festivalgoers find their favorite performances by wandering into an outdoor stage they hadn’t planned to visit.

Use the app to track set times. If one show ends at 6:00 PM and the next starts at 6:30 PM, you’ll have 30 minutes to walk, grab a bite, and find your seat. Don’t underestimate walking time between venues.

Tools and Resources

Official Festival Website

fivepointsjazzfestival.org – The only authoritative source for lineup, schedule, and ticketing links. Updated daily during the event period.

Ticketing Platforms

Each year, the festival partners with a primary ticketing provider. Historically, these have included:

• Eventbrite: Popular for smaller, community-driven events. Easy interface, mobile-friendly.
• Ticketmaster: Used for larger indoor concerts. May charge service fees.
• Local Denver platforms: Sometimes, local organizations like Denver Arts & Venues or the Five Points Business District handle ticketing directly.

Always use the link provided on the official website. Never click on ads or sponsored posts.

Mobile Apps

• Five Points Jazz Festival App: Available on iOS and Android. Download before the festival.
• RTD Mobile App: For real-time light rail schedules and fare payments.
• Google Maps: Use offline maps of Five Points to navigate without data.
• Apple Wallet / Google Pay: Store your digital tickets here for quick scanning.

Historical Resources

Deepen your experience with these educational tools:

• Denver Public Library’s Western History Collection: Free online archives on Five Points jazz history.
• Colorado Jazz Archive: Audio recordings and interviews with local musicians.
• The Rossonian Hotel Museum: Virtual exhibits on the hotel’s role in jazz history.

Transportation Tools

• RTD Journey Planner: Plan your light rail route in advance.
• Waze: Better than Google Maps for real-time traffic and road closures during the festival.
• B-cycle App: Find and unlock bikes at nearby stations.

Weather and Safety Resources

• NOAA Denver Forecast: Check 72-hour forecasts daily.
• Denver Police Live Map: Monitor event-related closures or safety advisories.
• Festival Emergency Contact: Listed on the official site—use only for urgent issues.

Community and Social Media

• Instagram: @fivepointsjazzfest – Visual updates, artist takeovers
• Facebook: Five Points Jazz Festival – Event discussions, ticket swaps
• X: @FivePointsJazz – Real-time announcements
• Reddit: r/Denver – Local tips and ride-sharing threads

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah’s First-Time Booking Experience

Sarah, a jazz enthusiast from Chicago, planned her first trip to the Five Points Jazz Festival in 2023. She began by signing up for the newsletter in March. On April 12, she received an email: “Early Access Begins April 15 at 8 AM.”

She created an Eventbrite account the night before. At 7:45 AM, she logged in, refreshed the page, and waited. At 8:00 AM, tickets for Dianne Reeves at the Rossonian Hotel appeared. She selected two VIP tickets—$75 each—and completed the purchase in under 90 seconds.

She downloaded the festival app, saved her tickets to Apple Wallet, and booked a hotel one block from the venue. On the day of the concert, she took the C Line train, arrived 45 minutes early, and enjoyed a pre-show tour of the historic hotel. She later attended a free outdoor set by the Denver Jazz Quartet and discovered a new favorite artist.

Sarah says: “I didn’t know how fast tickets would sell. If I’d waited until May, I’d have missed everything. Planning saved me.”

Example 2: The Johnson Family’s Group Booking

The Johnsons—parents and two college-age kids—wanted to attend together. They created a shared Google Sheet to track their preferred acts: Terri Lyne Carrington (ticketed), local saxophonist Marcus Johnson (free), and a gospel-jazz fusion set (ticketed).

They coordinated purchases using one account. When tickets dropped, the father bought Carrington’s show, and the daughter secured the gospel set. They both used the same payment method to avoid payment errors.

They stayed at an Airbnb with a kitchen, packed snacks, and walked between venues. They used the festival app to track stage changes and ended up seeing three more acts than planned because of last-minute updates.

“We didn’t just go to a concert,” said the mother. “We experienced a living culture.”

Example 3: Last-Minute Ticket Rescue

Tyler, a student in Denver, missed the general sale but still wanted to see the closing headliner. He checked the festival app daily. On June 20, he received a push notification: “20 tickets released for closing night due to cancellations.”

He opened the app, refreshed the ticket page, and clicked immediately. He secured two seats in the second row. He arrived early, met the artist’s sound engineer, and got a personal thank-you for his enthusiasm.

“I thought I was out of luck,” Tyler said. “But the festival leaves room for people who stay engaged.”

FAQs

When do tickets for the Five Points Jazz Festival go on sale?

Tickets are typically released in two phases: early access for newsletter subscribers in mid-April, followed by the general public sale in early May. Always check the official website for exact dates.

Are there free events at the Five Points Jazz Festival?

Yes. Multiple outdoor stages on 26th Avenue and Welton Street offer free performances throughout the day. These are first-come, first-served and do not require tickets.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?

Most ticketing platforms allow ticket transfers through their system. Log into your account, find your order, and select “Transfer Ticket.” The recipient must have an account on the same platform. Check the festival’s official policy for deadlines.

What if I can’t attend after buying a ticket?

Refund policies vary by ticketing provider. Most offer full refunds up to 72 hours before the event. After that, refunds are typically not available. Always review the terms before purchasing.

Is the festival wheelchair accessible?

Yes. All ticketed venues and outdoor stages are ADA-compliant. Accessible seating is available for ticketed events. Contact the festival through their official website to request accommodations in advance.

Can I bring my camera to the festival?

Personal smartphones and point-and-shoot cameras are allowed. Professional cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, and recording equipment are prohibited unless you have press credentials.

How do I get to the festival using public transit?

The RTD C Line light rail stops at the Five Points Station, a 5-minute walk from the main stages. Trains run every 10–15 minutes during festival hours. Use the RTD app to plan your trip.

Are children allowed at the festival?

Yes. The festival is family-friendly. Many daytime events include workshops and activities for kids. All attendees, regardless of age, require a ticket for indoor venues. Free outdoor stages welcome all ages.

What should I wear?

Dress comfortably for walking and variable weather. Layer your clothing. Evenings can be cool, even in June. Avoid high heels—many sidewalks are uneven.

Can I buy tickets at the door?

Some outdoor events don’t require tickets, but indoor concerts almost always sell out in advance. Do not rely on buying tickets at the venue. If tickets remain, they’re typically released on the app or website 1–2 hours before showtime.

Is parking available near the festival?

Parking is extremely limited. Use public transit, rideshare, or biking. Paid parking garages are available near the Denver Central Library and the Denver Art Museum, but expect to walk 10–15 minutes.

How long does the festival last?

The festival runs for two to three days, typically from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. Each day features performances from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Can I volunteer at the festival?

Yes. The festival relies on volunteers for ushering, vendor support, and guest services. Applications open in March. Visit the official website’s “Get Involved” page to apply.

What if it rains?

Outdoor stages may be canceled or moved indoors if severe weather occurs. Ticketed indoor events proceed as scheduled. The festival app will send real-time updates. Rain gear is recommended.

Are there food and drink options?

Yes. Dozens of local food trucks and vendors offer everything from soul food to vegan tacos and craft sodas. Alcohol is available for purchase at licensed areas. No outside food or drink is permitted.

Conclusion

Booking your ticket to the Five Points Jazz Festival in Denver is more than a logistical task—it’s the first step in participating in a living cultural tradition. This festival doesn’t just showcase music; it honors the resilience, creativity, and community spirit of a neighborhood that helped shape American jazz.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—registering early, using trusted tools, planning your route, and respecting the heritage—you ensure not only that you attend, but that you experience the festival in its fullest, most meaningful form.

Don’t treat this as a concert you simply buy a ticket for. Treat it as an invitation to be part of something greater. Listen deeply. Walk slowly. Taste the food. Talk to the musicians. Let the music move you.

The Five Points Jazz Festival is not just an event on a calendar. It’s a moment in time—a gathering of souls connected by rhythm, history, and heart. When you book your ticket, you’re not just securing a seat. You’re becoming part of the next chapter in a story that’s been unfolding for over a century.

Prepare well. Arrive with an open mind. And let the music carry you.