The Count Basie Orchestra

Stan Kenton Legacy Orchestra

Buddy Rich Big Band Machine

Three Legendary Bands. 230 Years of Jazz Fire. One Historic

Weekend

Count Basie. Stan Kenton. Buddy Rich.

Their sound defined generations - and now their band’s return, performed by the artists who carried the legacy forward, night after night, stage after stage.

Join us for three nights of swing, soul, and serious fire at Bayfront Festival Park in Duluth, Minnesota - June 11-13, 2026

Live in Duluth. June 2026

Experience the Ultimate Jazz & Cultural Festival

The North Shore Jazz Summit isn't just a festival—it's a citywide celebration of music, art, food, and culture. Over three days, Duluth and Superior transform into a vibrant hub for jazz enthusiasts, foodies, artists, and cultural explorers.

📅 Festival Schedule & Highlights

Thursday, June 11: Exclusive Recording Session

• Live Recording: Be part of an intimate audience as headliners and special guests record a live album.

• VIP Access: Behind-the-scenes experience, dinner at the Odd Shrine, and artist meet-and-greets.

Friday, June 12: Concert Night, Food Truck Fest & Vendor/Art Show

• Mainstage Performances:

  • Dina Preston Band

  • Vinnie & The Hitmen

  • Maynard Ferguson Tribute Band (feat. Steve Wiest, Chip McNeil, Denis DiBlasio, Stockton Helbing, Wayne Bergeron)

  • Top college, university, and high school jazz bands

• Food Truck Festival: A diverse array of food trucks and surprise pop-up vendors.

  • VIP Foodie Perks: Early access, exclusive tastings, and private seating areas.

• Vendor & Art Show: Featuring artisans, record vendors, rare vinyl, and visual artists from across the Midwest. Engage in hands-on art activities and discover festival-exclusive pieces.

Saturday, June 13: Headliners, BBQ Showdown & More

• Mainstage Performances:

  • Count Basie Orchestra

  • Stan Kenton Legacy Orchestra

  • Buddy Rich Big Band Machine featuring Cathy Rich

• Northland BBQ Festival: Regional pitmasters compete for your vote.

  • VIP BBQ Experience: Private tasting lounge, exclusive samples, and meet the pitmasters.

  • Urban BBQ Collaboration: Innovative culinary crossovers blending traditional and modern flavors.

• Expanded Vendor & Art Show: Continued showcase of art, street murals, and local collaborations.

🌃 Citywide Pop-Up Jazz Clubs & Nightlife

• Pop-Up Jazz Clubs: Discover secret and official venues throughout Duluth & Superior hosting late-night jam sessions, surprise headliners, and unannounced performances.

  • Festival Armband: Grants all-access to these exclusive events.

• Ultra VIP Perks:

  • Private lounges with craft cocktails.

  • Exclusive after-hours events and artist meet-and-greets.

  • Limited edition festival merchandise.

🎼 Composition Competition: Write Like a Legend

• The Challenge: Compose a new big band piece in the style of jazz legends—Count Basie, Stan Kenton, or Buddy Rich.

• Submission Details:

  • Open to all ages and backgrounds.

  • Finalists will have their pieces read by the house big band.

  • Winner: Performance and recording by a festival headliner, featured in the official festival album.

• Judging Criteria: Emphasis on authenticity, creativity, and capturing the essence of the chosen band's style.

🎟️ Tickets & Passes

• General Admission

• VIP Pass

  • Reserved seating

  • VIP access to food festivals and pop-up clubs

  • Festival swag bag

• Ultra VIP

  • All VIP benefits

  • Access to private lounges and exclusive events

  • Artist meet-and-greets, dinners, live recording events

  • Limited edition merchandise

Vendor & Artist Opportunities: Interested in showcasing your work? Contact us for application details.

🎉 Join the Celebration

Be part of a historic event that blends world-class jazz performances with culinary delights, artistic expressions, and vibrant nightlife.

Tickets on sale now.
For group rates, sponsorships, or more information:
📧 john@dglartists.com | 📞 218-464-7097