Sun · Oct 4 · 8am
Central Jersey Jazz Festival in Plainfield, NJ
Black Lives Matter Plaza (directly in front of Plainfield City Hall) · 515 Watchung Avenue, Plainfield, NJ 07060.
Live jazz will fill the air outside Plainfield City Hall this Sunday as the Central Jersey Jazz Festival makes its first stop in the city. Neighbors can spend a free afternoon on October 4 listening to some of the region's best players.
The festival runs from noon to 6 p.m. at Black Lives Matter Plaza, right in front of Plainfield City Hall. It is free and will go on rain or shine. Union County Life readers who love live music can catch it close to home.
The lineup includes Curtis Lundy Umoja, Grammy nominated pianist Orrin Evans, and Plainfield's own Anthony E. Nelson Jr. & Increase. Jazz House Kids will present the Ava McCune Quartet. Sheila Anderson, an author and radio host on WBGO Jazz 88.3 FM, will host the festival.
The festival grew out of the Somerville Jazz Festival, which started in 2009. It became the Central Jersey Jazz Festival in 2013 with events in Somerville and New Brunswick, and it has since been held in several Central Jersey towns. This year marks its first time in Plainfield.
For a hometown band like Anthony E. Nelson Jr. & Increase, it is a chance to play for neighbors right in the heart of the city. Find more Plainfield events, arts coverage, and community news on Union County Life.
Photo Credit: centraljerseyjazzfestival.com
FAQ:
Q: Is the Central Jersey Jazz Festival in Plainfield free?
A: Yes. The Central Jersey Jazz Festival in Plainfield is free and takes place rain or shine.
Q: Where is the Central Jersey Jazz Festival held, and is there parking?
A: The festival is at Black Lives Matter Plaza, in front of Plainfield City Hall. Parking details were not listed.
Q: When is the Central Jersey Jazz Festival?
A: The festival runs Sunday, October 4, 2026, from noon to 6 p.m. in Plainfield.
Q: Who is performing, and do I need to register?
A: The lineup includes Curtis Lundy Umoja, Orrin Evans, Anthony E. Nelson Jr. & Increase, and the Ava McCune Quartet. No registration is listed for the free Plainfield festival.
Q: Where can I find more jazz and arts events in Plainfield?
A: Union County Life covers Plainfield events, arts, and community news, including the Central Jersey Jazz Festival. Visit unioncountylife.com for more.
