Major Announcement Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival Entertainment Lineup

Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival Adds World‑Renowned Jazz Icon Brian Culbertson as Saturday Headliner and International Jazz Great Najee as the Sunday Headliner.

July 11–12, 2026 | Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District | Kansas City, Missouri

BRIAN CULBERTSON HEADLINES SATURDAY JULY 11TH

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Intimate Jazz Performances

Allow the soulful melodies of jazz to cradle you as talented musicians set the perfect backdrop for your evening. Each performance invites you to indulge in the rhythm and emotion that make jazz a cherished art form.

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Internationally acclaimed jazz pianist, composer, and producer

Brian has a global fanbase, unmatched musicianship, and electrifying live show make him the perfect headliner for Saturday night. We’re excited to continue building a lineup that reflects the spirit, diversity, and energy of the Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival.

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Culbertson, known for his dynamic stage presence

He has chart‑topping smooth jazz hits, and genre‑blending musicianship, brings a world‑class performance to one of the Midwest’s fastest‑growing cultural festivals

Incredible Showmanship

His appearance marks a major milestone for the event as it continues to expand its national and international reach.

Entertainment Schedule

July 11th 1:00pm - 11:00pm

* Headline Act: Brian Culbertson

2:00pm James Ward Band

3:00pm C Note

3:45pm E02 & The Crew

4:45pm Pink Martini

5:45pm John Hudson Band

6:45pm Blue Devil Revival

7:45pm Blair Bryant

9:00pm Brian Culbertson

Note: All schedules are subject to change

NAJEE HEADLINES SUNDAT JULY 12TH

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Intimate Jazz Performances

Allow the soulful melodies of jazz to cradle you as talented musicians set the perfect backdrop for your evening. Each performance invites you to indulge in the rhythm and emotion that make jazz a cherished art form.

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Internationally acclaimed jazz Saxophonist and Flautist, composer, and producer

The international renowned Najee brings his incredible talent and charismatic stage presence to close out our festival on Sunday night. We’re thrilled to curate a lineup that showcases the vibrant spirit of both wine and jazz.

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Feel the vibrant stage presence of Najee, a true jazz maestro

Get ready for a mesmerizing blend of smooth jazz and fine wine as we showcase talented artists and their captivating performances at one of the Midwest’s most exciting cultural gatherings.

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Incredible Showmanship

Najee's appearance represents a crucial step forward for the festival as it expands its influence throughout the country and internationally.

Entertainment Schedule

July 12th 12:00pm - 8:00pm

* Headline Act: Najee

1:00pm R&J Playerz Band

2:00pm Mutual Musicians

Foundation Quartet

3:00pm Flute Salsa Bossa Swing

Band

5:00pm B Side Band

6:45pm Najee

Note: All schedules are subject to change

Brian Culbertson - Bio

BRIAN CULBERTSON

Over the course of crafting a 25-album catalog and architecting nearly 40 Billboard No. 1 singles as a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer, Brian Culbertson has charted his own unique course in music. Label him jazz and he makes a funk record. Call him an R&B artist and he drops an acoustic jazz trio collection. Brand him pop and he creates a 32-minute New Age opus. And you’d be hard pressed to name another instrumentalist of his ilk who can mount an elaborately designed concert production that will keep him on the road for three consecutive months. 

Culbertson burst onto the scene in 1994 with a chart-topping album that he recorded in his college apartment featuring keyboard-led contemporary jazz tracks. “Long Night Out” landed him a lengthy record deal and signaled that a star was born. 

Flash forward to present day, Culbertson composed thirty songs that populate the three albums in “The Trilogy” that describes the three-part arc of a long-term relationship: the hot and steamy “falling in love” phase, the rocky middle when perhaps they even break up for a bit, and the couple reunites to live “happily ever after” phase.  

“Hearing the three albums in a row provides the context.  All the songs on ‘Red’ (October 2021) were clearly about passion and love.  ‘Blue’ (January 2022) is melancholy and sad songs, breakup songs and ‘losing people’ songs.  Once you get to part three, ‘White’ (May 2022) is all about songs that have an uplifting feel to them.  Stylistically, they all feel similar even though they are emotionally broad” said Culbertson. 

Possessing style, panache and a savvy business mind capable of moving the needle in music and beyond, Culbertson founded and curates the annual Napa Valley, Chicago, and New Orleans Jazz Getaways, which have attracted guests from all over the globe to experience his premier events. 

Whether you’re listening to music from “The Trilogy” on record or live in concert, you’re hearing an eclectic, entertaining and engaging set from an artist at the peak of his power.  

Engaging Experiences Await at the Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival

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Intimate Jazz Performances

Allow the soulful melodies of jazz to cradle you as talented musicians set the perfect backdrop for your evening. Each performance invites you to indulge in the rhythm and emotion that make jazz a cherished art form.

Friends raising their wine glasses in a celebratory toast at a vineyard. They are smiling and enjoying a wine-tasting experience outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.
Curated Wine Tasting

Savor exquisite selections from Missouri's finest vineyards, handpicked to celebrate regional flavors. Tailor your tasting experience with knowledgeable pours that will delight your palate, revealing stories in every sip.

Group of senior Caucasian men and women standing together holding wine glasses and smiling during art class, wearing aprons and engaging in creative educational activity
Interactive Workshops

Discover the art of winemaking and jazz improvisation in our engaging workshops led by experts. These hands-on experiences not only educate but also deepen your connection to the crafts you admire.

Elegant gourmet appetizers meticulously arranged in white ceramic bowls, showcasing fine dining, culinary artistry, and luxury catering at an upscale event.
Gourmet Food Vendors

Delight in a variety of gourmet food offerings that perfectly complement your wine experience. From artisanal cheeses to delectable bites, indulge in culinary pairings that elevate your festival enjoyment.

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Vibrant Community Atmosphere

Join fellow enthusiasts in a lively setting where every interaction adds to a sense of belonging. The festival fosters connections through shared passions for wine, jazz, and community spirit.

Two young female friends of Caucasian and Asian ethnicity are going to the Summer festival, looking at the event map, smiling, and deciding which stage to visit first.
Charming Festival Map

Navigate your festival experience seamlessly with our thoughtfully crafted festival map. Easily locate stages, vendors, and special exhibits designed to enhance your visit.

A group of friends clink their wine glasses in a toast, enjoying a lively summer gathering outdoors. The image captures the essence of carefree enjoyment and friendship.
VIP Lounge Experience

Retreat to the exclusive VIP lounge, offering a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication. Enjoy elevated wine selections and unique tastings that are yours to cherish throughout the festival.

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Evening Jam Sessions

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in our spontaneous evening jam sessions. Open to musicians and attendees alike, these sessions celebrate creativity and the joy of shared musical expression.

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Live Wine and Jazz Pairings

Experience curated wine and jazz pairings that tantalize your senses and elevate your enjoyment. Join us for unique tasting sessions!

Questions, Answered

Your inquiries about the Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival, thoughtfully addressed.
What are the ticket prices for the festival?

Tickets are available at varying levels to best suit your experience. A VIP Pass is priced at $150, while a Wine Tasters Pass is $75. For those who wish to simply enjoy the atmosphere without wine tasting, an Early Bird Non-Taster Pass is available for only $25.

How do I purchase tickets for the festival?

You can conveniently purchase your tickets online through our website. Simply navigate to the 'Buy Tickets' page, choose the pass that best fits your desires, and follow the instructions provided.

What is the festival schedule for this year?

The Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival will take place on July 11th from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM, and on July 12th from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Delight in a full experience each day as you immerse yourself in the charms of wine and jazz.

Is there a festival map available?

Yes, a detailed festival map is available on our website on the maps page, guiding you through the various wine tasting areas, stages, and vendor locations, making your experience as enjoyable as possible.

What types of entertainment will be featured at the festival?

Prepare to be captivated by an array of talented Jazz, R&B and Blues musicians, each bringing their unique sound to the stages. Additional entertainment and live performances will enhance the lively atmosphere throughout the festival, making for unforgettable moments.

Can I bring my own wine or food to the festival?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted within the festival grounds. We invite you to indulge in the wonderful selections of wines and culinary delights offered by our vendors, all carefully curated for your enjoyment.

What should I do if I have further questions regarding the festival?

If you have any additional inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out through our 'Contact' page. We are here to help and ensure that your experience at the Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival is nothing short of delightful.

Are children allowed at the Missouri Wine & Jazz Festival?

This is an age appropriate event. You must be 21 years of age or older to enter this event.

Can I bring a chair to the festival?

Yes. You can bring your own lawn chair to the festival if you purchased a Wine Tasters Pass or a Non-Wine Tasters Pass. If you purchased the VIP ticket or a table it comes with a chair. Small umbrellas are allowed but not oversized beach umbrella's.