On Saturday, Sept. 15, Palmer Square will host the 16th annual Jazzfeast, the popular open-air jazz festival that features some of the region’s best jazz musicians and showcases cuisine from a selection of the area’s finest restaurants.
The musical lineup this year includes The New Legacy Jazz Band featuring Beth McDonald, The Kenny Werner Trio, Greg Piccolo, The Princeton University Jazztet and The Jon Burr Band.
Recognizing that Jazzfeast has become a summer highlight for many, Palmer Square is extending the festivities an hour longer this year, from noon to 6 p.m.
”We are especially excited to be presenting the Princeton University Jazztet the first time we’ve had a group from the university,” said Anita Fresolone, Palmer Square’s marketing director.”
Food vendors at Jazzfeast are not serving up average festival food. Gourmet selections ranging from samosas and paella to pulled pork and grilled clams are just some of the many choices on the menu.
Participating restaurants include Alchemist & Barrister, Buzzetta Catering, Chez Alice Gourmet Cafe & Bakery,Masala Grill, Mediterra, Mehek, Teresa Caffe, The Original SoupMan, Tico’s, Tiger Noodles, Tiger’s Tale, Triumph Brewery Co., Underground Café & Restaurant, and Winberie’s.
The event will take place, rain or shine, on the Palmer Square Green. Musical performances are free; food vendors charge accordingly.
The performance schedule will run as follows.
Noon 1 p.m. The New Legacy Jazz Band, featuring Beth McDonald, in the band’s 16th consecutive appearance at JazzFeast.
Featuring the captivating voice of singer/songwriter Beth McDonald, and led by the dynamic and relentlessly swinging drummer Alan Dale, The New Legacy Jazz Band is one of America’s premier full-time professional ensembles.
1:15 2:15 p.m. The Kenny Werner Trio.
Acclaimed pianist Kenny Werner has performed and recorded with many of the giants of modern jazz, including Charles Mingus, Archie Shepp, Tom Harrell, Joe Lovano, and harmonica legend Toots Thielemans, with whom he plays duo concerts.
2:30 3:30 p.m. Greg Piccolo.
The versatile Greg Piccolo tenor sax, alto sax, guitar, bass is approaching 40 years of touring and recording. He created his “Piccolo sound” by blending blues with traditional jazz, pop, reggae and rock ‘n’ roll.
3:45 4:45 p.m. The Princeton University Jazztet.
The Princeton University Jazztet, directed by Anthony D.J. Branker, is one of a number of outstanding groups that are part of the university’s jazz program. Its members are alto and soprano saxophonist Irwin Hall, tenor saxophonist Ben Wasserman, pianist Julia Brav, bassist Dean Reynolds, and drummer Chuck Staab.
5 6 p.m. The Jon Burr Band.
The Jon Burr Band will be premiering new songs from an upcoming record release featuring Houston Person, among others.

