What has been referred to as Boston's biggest block party," the Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival certainly did not fail to disappoint last Saturday in Boston's South End, marking its 13th year of bringing jazz, blues and groove acts to music fans. And with not one, but three stages, the event offered attendees a little taste of everything - the festival also featured an endless amount of activities and vendors.
Perhaps the best aspect of the festival was its price tag - free of charge, the event was open to audiences of all ages. This year's show was based on the theme "Jazz: The Next Generation," and, fittingly, the festival focused on up-and-coming artists in the jazz world.
A highly anticipated, diverse event produced by Berklee College of Music, the festival typically draws a crowd of around 80,000 people annually. There was, most obviously, plenty of jazz for listeners to enjoy. Yet, the event was not just limited to music - many parents decided to make the day a family affair and brought their children, who were entertained by other pavilions, including a petting zoo in the main park. With 70 vendors set up over six blocks, there was absolutely nothing missing from the event this time around. Part of its success is due to financial support from outside sources
