“While many festivals are held in all-inclusive venues, such as fairgrounds or amphitheatres, the Berkeley “happening” takes place in a plethora of settings, giving festival-goers a chance to explore the many niches of downtown Berkeley.” – Jim Harrington, Oakland Tribune

Welcome to Berkeley, the setting for the exciting Downtown Berkeley Musicfest! A vibrant city with a burgeoning Arts District at its core, the Downtown serves as a destination for a diverse array of world-class music, theatre, film and cuisine.

The Downtown Berkeley Music Festival is a 10-day summer music festival celebrating music from throughout the world. Music and correlated cultural events including dance, jam sessions, workshops, and cuisine are featured at various venues throughout the Downtown, promoting the arts and contributing to a more lively downtown community.

Expanding on the eclectic nature of downtown Berkeley, the Downtown Berkeley Musicfest lineup of over 50 performances, many free, includes a wide range of music from “trad” jazz to jugbands and from Afro-Brazilian rock to bluegrass. From youthful jazz prodigy Sam Reider to the inimitable Maria Muldaur, an instrument petting zoo to dancing under the stars to the rare groove sound of Curtis Bumpy, this is a festival for all ages of performers and listeners. Join the festival community on Facebook and Twitter for up to date late festival news, invitation-only events, and contests with great prizes.

We invite you to join us August 20-29, for an unforgettable week celebrating the arts in our inimitable city of Berkeley. This event is sponsored by the Downtown Berkeley Association, City of Berkeley, AT&T and produced by the Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse.