The South Carolina Jazz Festival
Each October, the charming town of Cheraw, South Carolina, transforms into a stage for music, culture and community. From October 16–19, 2025, Cheraw will host the South Carolina Jazz Festival, a four-day celebration honoring its most famous native, John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Born in Cheraw in 1917, Dizzy Gillespie went on to become one of the most influential figures in modern jazz. Known for his bent trumpet and infectious energy, Gillespie helped pioneer bebop and Afro-Cuban jazz, leaving a mark that shaped the sound of the 20th century. For Cheraw, hosting this annual festival is about more than music. It’s about honoring the spirit of creativity and joy that hometown legend Dizzy Gillespie brought into the world and inviting jazz lovers to return home to the very streets of his birthplace, where his journey began.
Four Days of World-Class Jazz
The South Carolina Jazz Festival brings together a mix of world-renowned performers, regional talent and community musicians across multiple venues. From intimate jam sessions in local cafés to grand performances on main stages, Cheraw comes alive with rhythm and soul.
Festival-goers can enjoy:
- Headlining concerts featuring nationally acclaimed artists, including the dynamic jazz pianist Emmet Cohen, performing on October 18.
- Free community performances in Cheraw’s parks, streets and public spaces that are perfect for families and casual music lovers.
- Workshops and educational programs designed to inspire young musicians and connect audiences with the heart of jazz.
Local art, food, and culture are included into the celebration, making the event uniquely Cheraw.
Beyond the Music
The SC Jazz Festival is also a celebration of place. Visitors can explore historic downtown Cheraw, stroll through the Dizzy Gillespie Homesite Park, and enjoy the town’s signature Southern hospitality. With inviting restaurants, unique local shops, and a welcoming community, the festival atmosphere extends well beyond the music. Explore places to stay in Cheraw so you can be right in the heart of the action. While in town, don’t miss nearby treasures like Cheraw State Park, where you can hike, golf, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the Sandhills region. For even more ideas, check out 5 Things to Do in Chesterfield County and start planning your perfect getaway.
Plan Your Visit
The 2025 South Carolina Jazz Festival runs from Thursday, October 16, through Sunday, October 19. With a mix of free and ticketed events, there’s something for everyone. Learn more about the festival schedule, venues, and tickets at scjazzfestival.com.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Attending the SC Jazz Festival is more than just a weekend of music — it’s a chance to stand at the crossroads of history, culture, and community. To hear Dizzy’s legacy carried forward. To watch young musicians find their voice. To celebrate the power of jazz in the very place where one of its legends was born.
This October, pack your love of music and head to Cheraw. Let the sounds of bebop, swing, and improvisation surround you as we celebrate Dizzy Gillespie’s 107th birthday in the town he once called home.
Join us in Cheraw, SC, October 16–19, and be part of the music, the magic, and the memory.
