The Jazz on the Lawn Summer Concert Series returns for its 13^th year! Each Sunday in August.

“Everyone is invited to grab friends, family and dancing shoes for free concerts in the park. A sampling of jazz and world music genres, free dance lessons and intermission performances (on select dates), and some of the area’s finest food trucks will be presented in Gandara Park (formerly Stewart Street Park). Patrons are invited to come early to enjoy new family-fun activities for children and adults, providing entertainment like corn hole, giant blocks and more beginning one hour prior to each concert,” — Santa Monica City.

Joe Hernandez Kolski, co-founder of Downbeat 720, an open-mic event for high school performers, will be hosting the evening. Downbeat 720 has been running for over sixteen years and is sponsored by the City of Santa Monica.

MUSIC: Orquesta Tabaco y Ron
At 5pm, Orquesta Tabaco y Ron performs a high-energy, hard-edged brand of salsa music with a tropical sound that has appealed to devoted salsa dancers and Latin music DJ’s worldwide. The 10-piece big band orchestra is comprised of musicians from all over Latin America.
Free salsa dance lesson will be offered before the concert, at 4:30 p.m., led by Rudy Zalez, a professional salsa dancer known for his charisma and distinctive style.

FOOD TRUCKS:
• The Gastrobus - farmers’ market bistro with locally-sourced dishes
• Tacos Super Gallito – burritos, tortas, quesadillas and tacos
• King Kone - ice cream and sweet treats

PRE-CONCERT GAMES: Begin one hour prior to the concert at 4 p.m. and continue until 7 p.m.

Gandara Park includes a children’s playground, restrooms and parking. Free bike valet will be offered starting at 4 p.m. in the Gandara Park lot.
Walk, bike, scoot, public transit or multi-modal your way. Expo Line 26^th Street/Bergamot Station is an short eight-minute walk and Big Blue Bus Route 5 stops in both directions on Olympic Blvd. at Stewart St.

For more information on the series, visit smgov.net/jazz. See and share posts about the concerts by using #ArtSaMo.