A Celebration of Sound and Community
Jazz in the Pass is a beloved annual tradition held in War Memorial Park in Pass Christian, Mississippi. Set against the backdrop of towering oaks and sparkling Gulf waters, this free festival brings the community together with soulful sounds, smooth rhythms, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Featuring a lineup of talented local and regional jazz musicians, the event takes place on the Sunday before Memorial Day and draws music lovers from across the Gulf Coast. When the music is over, we end the day with a fireworks display! Another example of “Relaxation Redefined” in the Pass!
More than just a concert, Jazz in the Pass celebrates the city’s deep musical roots and honors the legacy of homegrown legends like Captain John Handy and the Watson Brothers Band. Attendees are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets, enjoy delicious offerings from food and craft vendors, and relax into an afternoon filled with live music, camaraderie, and coastal charm. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Jazz in the Pass promises an uplifting experience in true Pass Christian style.
May 25, 2025
12PM-8pm
Pass Christian War Memorial Park
Attend
Find your rhythm at Jazz in the Pass—plan your visit and take a piece of the festival home.
Support
Keep the music alive—your support helps fund the festival, performances, and community programs.
Get Involved
Join the vibe—volunteer, vend, or help behind the scenes to make the magic happen.
Our Corporate Sponsors
Thanks to Our Sponsors
We’re incredibly grateful to the sponsors who help make Jazz in the Pass possible. Their generous support keeps this event free, fun, and filled with unforgettable music year after year. From staging and sound to student outreach and community programming, every note played is made stronger through their partnership. Thank you for investing in the rhythm and heart of Pass Christian!
Crescendo (Fireworks)
Buc’ees
Trombone
Martha Murphy Foundation
Trumpet
Kenny Torgeson
Jimmy Rafferty
Wynn and Bill Seeman
Gulf Coast Pre-Strees
Island View Casino
Pass Cigars
Saxophone
Robin’s Nest in the Pass
Robert’s Place Café’
Mississippi Coast Realty
Bacchus Restaurant Group
Victor Pickich
The Whiskey Bar
Penn Entertainment
Davis Drugs
Traintastic Train Museum
Southern Printing and Silk Screening
Clarinet
Portable Services
WPSCO
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Lopiccolo
Amy Wood Properties
Bourdin Brothers
Our History
Pass Christian has long been a place where music lives and breathes—from church choirs to coastal blues, and most notably, jazz. The city’s deep-rooted musical heritage inspired the creation of Jazz in the Pass, a community celebration that honors this legacy with every note played beneath the oaks of War Memorial Park.
One of Pass Christian’s most influential musical figures was Captain John Handy, a legendary saxophonist whose soulful sound helped shape the New Orleans jazz revival. Born in the Pass in 1900, Handy’s talent carried him far, but his story remains closely tied to the community that raised him. His contributions, along with those of other hometown talents like Joe B. Jackson and the Watson Brothers Band, laid the foundation for the city’s lasting connection to jazz.
This proud heritage was formally recognized with a Mississippi Blues Trail marker, titled “Blues and Jazz in the Pass,” honoring the city’s contributions to two of America’s most iconic musical styles. The marker serves as a reminder of the city’s cultural depth and its role in the evolution of Southern music.
Jazz in the Pass continues this tradition today, not only as a free, family-friendly event, but as a living tribute to the musical pioneers who came before. Through performances, community participation, and educational outreach, the festival ensures that the rhythm of Pass Christian remains strong for generations to come.
Our Team
Our dedicated board members are the heart of Jazz in the Pass. Their passion, leadership, and behind-the-scenes work help bring this beloved festival to life each year. From organizing talent to coordinating logistics and building community partnerships, each member plays a vital role in keeping the music playing and the spirit of Pass Christian alive. We’re proud to recognize the individuals who make it all happen.
2025 Board Members
Joe Piernas, Chair
Earl Washington, Vice Chair
Wendy Allard, Secretary
Kimberly Joseph, Treasurer
Laura Welsh
Douglas Welsh
Andrew Koslosky
Susan Putnam, City Liason
Get Involved
Jazz in the Pass is more than a music festival—it’s a community-powered celebration of art, culture, and coastal spirit. Whether you’re a music lover, local business, performer, or volunteer, there’s a role for everyone in bringing this event to life.
Love being behind the scenes? Join our volunteer crew to help with event setup, hospitality, or logistics—we’ll match your talents to where they’re needed most. Interested in performing or showcasing your group? We’re always on the lookout for talented local and regional acts to add to our dynamic lineup.
Businesses and individuals can also make an impact by becoming sponsors, helping us keep the festival free and accessible to all. Your support fuels everything from live performances to student engagement and community outreach.
Want to learn more about how to get involved? Contact us and let us know how you’d like to be part of the rhythm!
