31st annual Elkhart Jazz Festival kicks off Friday

The 31st annual Jazz Festival kicks off Friday in Elkhart.

More than 100 artists will perform on seven different stages throughout downtown Elkhart.

Kicking off the festival Friday, June 22 will be famed guitarist Lee Ritenour. Other performers are to include beat box saxophonist Derek Brown, the Mike Smith Quartet and Midwest funk-soul group Main Squeeze.

Festival organizers say the annual festival gets bigger and better each year, and that there is something for everyone during the jam-packed weekend.

"Jazz is an interesting genre because there's all types," said Co-Chair David Smith. "If you can tap your toes or clap your hands to it, you're going to enjoy it."

The festival is to take place June 22-24, and tickets are on sale. They can be purchased at

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