Jazz and Rib Fest

History

In 1979, Music in the Air launched Jazz in July, a series presenting jazz through music, film and visual arts at various City of Columbus parks and facilities. Several activities were hosted at the Cultural Arts Center including a Jazz Film Festival and an art exhibit entitled, "Jazz Totems… An Affirmation of Life." Weekly lunchtime performances were held in the Cultural Arts Center courtyard and featured the newly formed Jazz Arts Group. This was the foundation for what is now the Jazz & Rib Fest – Columbus’ largest free outdoor music festival and one of the nation’s largest rib cook-offs.