Central Park Jazz Jam is striking a powerful chord in Tampa’s cultural scene, reviving the city’s deep-rooted jazz legacy with a brand-new live music experience. If you have ever wished Tampa leaned harder into its jazz roots, the city has heard you. Central Park Jazz Jam debuts at Tampa’s African American History Museum at ENCORE on Tuesday, December 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., blending live jazz, community culture, and historic Tampa into one unforgettable evening.
A neighborhood-style jazz experience
Rather than feeling like a stiff concert hall performance, this event is designed to feel like a relaxed neighborhood reunion set to a swing beat. Guests can enjoy outdoor music, family-friendly vibes, and local heritage while soaking in the sounds that once defined this district. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy for newcomers and longtime jazz lovers alike to feel at home.
Nick Peters Quartet opens the series
The new quarterly series kicks off with the Nick Peters Quartet, bringing smooth improvisation and classic jazz energy to Ray Charles Boulevard in the historic Encore neighborhood, formerly known as The Scrub. This opening performance highlights Nick Peters Quartet, quarterly jazz series, and Encore neighborhood as cornerstones of the event’s mission to blend music with place.
Community partners shape the event
Brokenmold Entertainment has teamed up with the Tampa Black History Museum, Tampa Housing Authority, Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, Tampa Bay History Center, and Tampa Downtown Partnership to transform the courtyard into an open-air listening room. Together, they emphasize community collaboration, cultural preservation, and public engagement while hosting the concert at 1213 N Central Ave.
Live music where the legends once played
This is not just a random place to put a stage. Last September, Mayor Jane Castor helped unveil the Music Legends of Central Avenue historic marker on what would have been Ray Charles’s 95th birthday. The marker honors icons like Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, Tampa Red, and the Adderley Brothers, reinforcing Central Avenue history, jazz legends, and musical heritage as living parts of the neighborhood.
Family-friendly fun with historical depth
Families can expect free, kid-friendly activities from the YMCA and Tampa Bay History Center while the band handles the grown-up business of solos and standards. With free admission, the event highlights family activities, free live music, and educational experiences, encouraging attendees to explore the museum and the stories it protects.
An invitation to experience Tampa’s rhythm
So if you needed an excuse to spend a Tuesday evening outside, consider this your invitation. Tampa’s past is throwing a jam session, and the present is invited to sit in. With Central Park Jazz Jam, Tampa culture, and live community events colliding, this series promises to grow into a must-attend tradition.
This first jam is only the beginning—future nights could reveal even more stories, sounds, and surprises waiting to swing back into Tampa’s spotlight.
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