An Evening of Jazz in Johnson City

Picture this: Sunset Hill Country skies, a group of friends, a bottle of local wine enjoyed on a picnic blanket. 

Add the smooth stylings of talented local jazz musicians, and you have an ideal Hill Country evening. The Johnson City Jazz Fest is a wonderful way to spend a fall evening – soaking up the music, the atmosphere and the beauty of a Hill Country evening. Come out and enjoy this free concert featuring talented Texas jazz musicians. 

Admission is FREE.

Sarah Sharp Quintet

The Sarah Sharp Quintet will take the stage at 5 p.m.

Austin’s premier Jazz singer and award-winning singer/songwriter of international acclaim, Sarah Sharp is returning to Johnson City with her all-star quintet featuring Mitch Watkins, Masumi Jones, John Fremgen, and Oliver Steck. Sarah recently won her 3rd Austin Chronicle Austin Music Award for Best Jazz in 2024. 

Rique Pantoja Quartet

The Rique Pantoja Quartet will take the stage at 6:30 p.m.

Rique Pantoja is a multi-talented composer, arranger, songwriter, singer, and jazz pianist hailing from Rio de Janeiro. After studying at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, Rique traveled to Paris to work with legendary American jazz trumpeter Chet Baker. Rique was one of the founding members of the highly successful Cama de Gato (“Cat’s Cradle”), which remains one of the most outstanding Brazilian jazz groups. 

John Mills Times Ten

John Mills TIMES TEN will take the Jazz Fest stage at 8 p.m.

TIMES TEN is Austin’s iconic 10-piece fusion jazz ensemble led by saxophonist and composer Dr. John Mills. This powerhouse group brings Mills’ original compositions to life with intricate arrangements and dynamic performances, featuring a lineup of exceptional jazz talents.

Come for Jazz Fest. Stay For the whole Weekend. 

Make attending Johnson City Jazz Fest even more fun when you choose to spend the weekend with us. A weekend in Johnson City provides a well-rounded slate of activities to enjoy. Spend the day hiking and exploring our state parks, savor a delicious dinner in town, enjoy the jazz concert, then grab a nightcap at one of our local hangouts. After a full evening, head back to one of our local short-term rentals for a good night’s sleep, then enjoy a day of history, shopping, and more good local food on Sunday. 

Food & Drink

The Grand Pour

Lunar Eclipse Viewing Party at Pedernales Falls State Park

34th Annual Pig Roast - October 9, 2026

34th Annual Pig Roast - October 9, 2027

Perfect Places to Stay in Johnson City

Book a full weekend’s slate of Hill Country activities in Johnson City. When you choose one of our local short-term rentals, you’ll have a charming place to stay and enjoy the weekend. Take your time and soak in some scenic Hill Country views or indulge in tastings at local wineries and tasting rooms. There’s plenty to keep you busy locally, and staying in town makes it easier to enjoy the full weekend without worrying about a drive home after the Jazz Fest concert ends. 

Find More Fun in the Texas Hill Country

Read our guides to Johnson City to get more insight and ideas on the perfect ways to spend your days (and nights!) in the Texas Hill Country. 

11 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Johnson City

Johnson City is the first stop when you’re headed into the Texas Hill Country for wine and exploration. However, you may not know that this small-town community is actually...

Make a Splash: Water Fun In and Around Johnson City, Texas

We love the Texas Hill Country, but we’re also honest – sometimes a little water fun is necessary when those summer temperatures keep climbing!  We want to ensure you...

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List for Johnson City, Texas 

Johnson City is the gateway to the Hill Country and a perfect place to enjoy the beauty and unique charm of small-town Texas.    Wondering what to do with...

Inside the Travel + Leisure Guide to Johnson City, Texas

Johnson City has always been the kind of place that people discover and can't stop talking about. Now, one of the country's most trusted travel publications is doing the...

Praise for Johnson City Jazz Fest Performers

If there is a torch-bearer of this hidden kingdom of Austin jazz, it would be Sarah Sharp….Sharp’s intoxicating voice has been a mainstay long enough to cement her place among Austin’s elite music-makers.