by Katelynn Cole

The Jazz and Rib Fest is ready for its 30th anniversary in July in the Arena District downtown. Jazz music and the smell of freshly barbequed ribs will fill the air of North Bank Park, McFerson Commons, and Spring and Long Streets July 24 and July 25 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and July 26 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“This year's festival will offer jazz connoisseurs and more than 60 hours of live performances from musicians descending on Columbus from all over the United States and the world. In addition to the 40 bands scheduled to perform, 22 award-winning rib-burners representing 10 states and Canada will also fire up their grills to compete for ‘Best Ribs’ bragging rights,” says William Behnke, communications and development coordinator for Columbus Recreation and Parks.

The jazz artists include Grammy Award winner Norman Brown’s Summer Storm starring Patti Austin, Eric Darius and Gail Johnson. A portion of their performance will tribute the music and memory of Wayman Tisdale, a former NBA player and jazz artist who died on May 15 and was originally scheduled to perform with the group. Tisdale lost a two-year battle with bone cancer at the age of 44. Patti Austin was chosen to replace him.

Other artists include Mindi Abair, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Brian Simpson Quartet, the Columbus Youth Jazz Orchestra with Herlin Riley and many more.

The 30th year of the festival also brings some new features. Due to construction, the festival has been moved to the Arena District for the first time. Also, local jazz artists will be featured at the Jazz Café at the North Bank Pavilion. The stage for their performance will be set against the city skyline.

The event also hosts a variety of activities each put on by the different sponsors of the event. From COSI’s science spot, to Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom Adventure Tour, Sunny D’s Hip Hop Stop, M&M Brand Ice Cream Summer of Fun and more, there will be something fun for everyone to enjoy.

In the midst of a scattered economy, this free event is the perfect night out for anyone looking for a fun time of delicious food and upbeat music. For more information on the performing artists and schedule of events, visit www.hotribscooljazz.org.