Grammy-nominated Afro-Cuban artist Cimafunk will headline the 2026 Silver Spring Jazz Festival, a free outdoor concert beginning at noon on Saturday, Sept. 12, at Veterans Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring.
Sponsored by Montgomery County government, the annual festival brings together internationally acclaimed performers, local musicians, and thousands of residents and visitors for a day of live music in the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District.
Cimafunk, joined by his eight-piece band La Tribu, is known for blending Afro-Caribbean and Cuban rhythms with funk, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and R&B. His name, Cimafunk, pays tribute to the Cubans of African descent who resisted slavery, and the musical heritage that inspired his Afro-Cuban sound. His performances have earned acclaim at major music festivals around the world, including Bonnaroo, Coachella, the Newport Jazz Festival, the Montreal Jazz Festival, and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. He also has appeared on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series and on Austin City Limits.
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The 2026 festival also marks the 25th anniversary of Silver Spring’s designation as a Maryland Arts and Entertainment District. Since receiving the designation in 2001, Downtown Silver Spring has continued to grow as a destination for arts, entertainment, restaurants, and community events.
“As we celebrate 25 years as a Maryland Arts and Entertainment District, the Silver Spring Jazz Festival reminds us what makes this community special,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “It’s a free event that brings people together, supports local businesses, and makes live music accessible to everyone. I hope people from across Montgomery County will join us for a day of music, community, and celebration in Downtown Silver Spring.”
The Silver Spring Jazz Festival began in 2004 and has featured artists including Wynton Marsalis, Arturo Sandoval, Branford Marsalis, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Dianne Reeves, Delfeayo Marsalis, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Chucho Valdés.
Additional performers and the full entertainment schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.
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Veterans Plaza, located at 1 Veterans Place, is a short walk from the Silver Spring Metro Station and is accessible by Metrorail, Metrobus, Ride On, and other public transit services. Public parking is available throughout Downtown Silver Spring.
Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or low-back lawn chairs. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from nearby restaurants and vendors.
Additional information, including transportation, parking, and performance updates, is available on the Silver Spring Jazz Festival webpage.
Read the original article at mcgov