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The Napa Valley Jazz Getaway is where smooth jazz and premium wines create a perfect harmony against the stunning backdrop of California wine country. Coming June 4-7, 2025, this four-day celebration brings together world-class jazz performances, exceptional wine tastings, and the natural beauty of Napa Valley. Hosted by jazz pianist extraordinaire Brian Culbertson, the festival promises an unforgettable blend of musical talent and vineyard luxury that’s become a calendar highlight for music and wine lovers alike.
🎷 Quick-Glance Highlights
📍 Locations:
- Concerts: Grand Reserve at The Meritage Resort, 850 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA
- VIP Events: The Westin Verasa Napa, 1314 McKinstry St, Napa, CA
📅 Dates: Wednesday–Saturday, June 4–7, 2025
⏰ Time: Multiple performances and events daily (schedule released closer to event)
🎶 Headliners: Brian Culbertson, Boney James, Sheila E., Stokley, Gerald Albright, Damien Escobar, The Bar-Kays, and more
🍷 Wine Events: Daily “Wine Down” tastings with select Napa Valley wineries
🎟️ Tickets: Get tickets Here
- Single-Day GA: $119–$149
- Multi-Day Packages: Silver, Gold, and Platinum options with exclusive perks
🚗 Parking: Reserved parking at Meritage Resort – $25/day
🧾 Includes: Concert access, wine tasting (depending on package), VIP perks for upgraded tickets
🧴 What to Bring: Valid ID, sunscreen, hat, layers, phone charger, and cash/card
🚫 Don’t Bring: Outside food/drinks, pets (except service animals), large bags, smoking/vaping items
🔞 Age: All ages welcome; children under 10 discouraged
👗 What to Wear: “Wine Country Chic” — stylish casual with layers for Napa’s warm days and cool nights
🛏️ Where to Stay: Preferred hotels include The Meritage Resort & Spa and The Westin Verasa Napa
Having attended this incredible festival multiple times, I can tell you it’s worth every penny. The Napa Valley Jazz Getaway offers that rare combination of sophisticated entertainment and relaxed California vibes that’s hard to find elsewhere. From the sun-soaked outdoor concerts to intimate evening performances, you’ll experience jazz in a setting that feels both grand and personal at the same time. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of this wine country musical paradise.
Ticket Options & Entry Details for the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway
If you’re planning to attend the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, understanding your ticket options will help you maximize the experience. Single-day General Admission tickets range from $119-$149 and get you into that day’s performances, but the real magic happens with the multi-day packages.
The Silver package includes concert access, reserved seating (goodbye lawn chairs!), and daily “Wine Down” tastings with select Napa wineries. Gold level kicks things up with VIP lounge privileges and opportunities to meet your favorite artists. For those wanting the ultimate jazz experience, Platinum packages offer front-row seating, exclusive merchandise, and premium perks throughout the festival.
Here’s my biggest tip as a veteran attendee: tickets sell out lightning fast, often months before the event. There are no on-site ticket sales if the event reaches capacity, so don’t wait! Head to the official Jazz Getaway website and secure your spot early. The disappointment of missing out is real – I’ve seen it happen to friends who procrastinated.
What to Expect at This Wine Country Jazz Festival
The 2025 Napa Valley Jazz Getaway lineup is absolutely stellar. Headliners include festival host Brian Culbertson, saxophone legend Boney James, percussion queen Sheila E., vocal powerhouse Stokley, and the incomparable Gerald Albright. You’ll also enjoy performances from Damien Escobar, The Bar-Kays, and several surprise guests that pop up throughout the weekend.
Between musical sets, the “Wine Down” events are where you’ll sample premium Napa wines from renowned local vineyards. These aren’t rushed tastings – they’re curated experiences with knowledgeable winemakers who love sharing their passion. The festival has thoughtfully paced these events to complement the concert schedule, creating the perfect rhythm of music and wine throughout your day.
When the main stage wraps up, the night is still young! Afterparties at The Westin Verasa Napa keep the groove going with intimate jam sessions and wine tourism experiences that showcase why this region attracts enthusiasts from around the world. The setting itself deserves special mention – outdoor stages framed by rolling vineyards create an ambiance that’s upscale yet refreshingly casual.
Festival Essentials: What to Bring (and Leave Behind)
Packing smart for the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway will make your experience so much smoother. First, the must-haves: a valid ID (they check, regardless of your age!), quality sunscreen (reapply often – that Napa sun is serious business), and a stylish hat that provides actual shade. Temperature swings in wine country are real, so layered clothing is essential – I typically bring a light jacket even on the warmest days.
Don’t forget a portable phone charger, as you’ll be taking photos and videos all day. Cash and cards are both accepted by vendors, but having some cash on hand speeds up food and merchandise purchases. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want a small notebook to jot down the names of wines you discover and love during the tastings.
Now for what to leave at home: outside food and drinks are prohibited (trust me, the festival food options are worth exploring). Pets aren’t allowed unless they’re service animals. Leave large bags at your hotel – security checks are thorough and you don’t want to lug unnecessary weight around all day. And as much as you might enjoy a cigar with your jazz, smoking and vaping aren’t permitted in the event areas. Your lungs will thank you anyway – that pristine wine country air is part of the experience!
Dressing for the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway
The unofficial dress code for the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway is “Wine Country Chic” – a perfect blend of style and comfort that works for both daytime heat and evening coolness. During daylight hours, think breathable fabrics like linen pants or shorts, flowy midi dresses, and comfortable yet stylish sandals. Wide-brim hats serve double duty as both sun protection and fashion statements.
As the sun sets and temperatures drop (sometimes by 20+ degrees!), you’ll want light jackets, elegant wraps, or tailored jumpsuits. I learned this lesson the hard way my first year, shivering through an evening performance because I hadn’t planned for the temperature shift. Now I always pack a chic scarf or lightweight jacket that complements my outfit while keeping me comfortable.
The best wine tasting fashion balances practicality with style. Avoid high heels (you’ll be walking between venues on varied terrain), and instead opt for stylish flats or low wedges. For gentlemen, polo shirts and nice shorts or pants work perfectly for day, while adding a light blazer or button-up shirt creates an effortless evening look. Remember, this is Napa – casual elegance is the name of the game!
Getting Around: Parking & Transportation Tips
Navigating the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway logistics is straightforward once you know the details. Reserved parking at The Meritage Resort costs $25 per day, and while that might seem steep, the convenience is worth every penny. These spots fill up quickly, so pre-book if possible. The parking areas are well-organized and close to the main stage, making those mid-day trips back to your car for a jacket or forgotten item relatively painless.
If you’re staying off-site or prefer not to drive, the festival has arranged for clearly marked rideshare zones near all venues. Both Uber and Lyft operate extensively throughout Napa Valley, though expect surge pricing when concerts end. My personal recommendation? Book one of the festival shuttles if you’re staying at a non-partner hotel. The traffic gets surprisingly congested, especially as everyone leaves the evening concerts simultaneously.
For those feeling adventurous, consider renting bikes if you’re staying within a few miles of the venues. Napa offers beautiful cycling paths, and numerous vineyard routes make for scenic rides between your accommodations and the festival. Just remember that after a day of wine tasting and jazz, you might prefer a chauffeured ride back to your hotel!
Luxury Accommodations: Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodations for the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, you’ve got two standout options that offer special perks for festival attendees. The Meritage Resort & Spa sits just steps from the main stage, featuring vineyard views, luxury amenities, and an underground spa carved into the hillside – perfect for post-concert relaxation. I stayed here last time and loved being able to walk back to my room between performances.
The Westin Verasa Napa serves as the VIP event hub with its stylish riverfront location and contemporary rooms. Their restaurant, La Toque, offers one of the finest dining experiences in Napa – a perfect complement to your wine festival weekend. The Westin also hosts many of the late-night jam sessions, meaning you can simply take an elevator “home” when the music finally winds down.
Both properties offer exclusive festival packages that might include reserved parking, welcome gifts, and special access to certain events. Book your accommodations as early as possible – these rooms sell out faster than the most coveted festival tickets. Every year, I see fellow jazz lovers scrambling for last-minute accommodations and missing out on these prime spots.
Staying Connected and Festival Updates
To make sure you don’t miss a beat about the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway, follow their social media accounts (@napajazzgetaway on Instagram and Facebook) for lineup announcements, behind-the-scenes content, and last-minute schedule changes. Their newsletter also provides exclusive ticket presale opportunities and partner hotel discount codes – I’ve scored early access more than once this way.
The official website, jazzgetaway.com, remains the most reliable source for accurate information. They typically release the detailed daily schedule about a month before the event, including set times and special performances. The site also features a helpful FAQ section that addresses common questions about accessibility, parking, and festival policies.
During the festival itself, download the official Napa Valley Jazz Getaway mobile app for real-time updates, interactive maps, and artist information. The app sends notifications about surprise pop-up performances or any weather-related changes – crucial info that can make or break your festival experience.
The 2025 Napa Valley Jazz Getaway promises to be an unforgettable fusion of world-class jazz and premium wines in one of California’s most beautiful settings. From the moment the first notes float across the vineyard-framed stage until the final encore, you’ll be immersed in a sensory experience that only Napa can deliver. The careful curation of musicians, wines, and venues creates something truly special that keeps attendees returning year after year.
Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, wine lover, or simply searching for a sophisticated getaway with friends, this festival checks all the boxes. I’ve made lifelong friends waiting in line for Brian Culbertson’s autograph and discovered favorite new wines between sets. The Napa Valley Jazz Getaway isn’t just a festival – it’s a celebration of life’s finest pleasures in perfect harmony. See you there next June – I’ll be the one with the wide-brim hat, glass of Cabernet in hand, swaying to the smooth sounds of saxophone against a vineyard sunset.
