GRAND RAPIDS, Ohio — Looking for a relaxing summer afternoon just outside Toledo? The annual Sunset Jazz & Art Festival returns to Grand Rapids on Sunday, Aug. 16, bringing live jazz, local artists and food vendors to one of Northwest Ohio’s most scenic riverfront settings.
Hosted by the Grand Rapids Arts Council, the free event runs from 2 p.m. until sunset along the historic towpath between the Miami & Erie Canal and the Maumee River. Organizers say the festival has been a Northwest Ohio tradition since 2005 and is the region’s longest-running jazz festival.
This year’s entertainment lineup includes:
- 2:30–3:45 p.m. – Ariel Kasler Quartet
- 4:00–5:15 p.m. – Morgan Hammer
- 5:30–6:45 p.m. – 6th Edition
- 7 p.m. until sunset – Organic Ingredients
In addition to live music, festivalgoers can watch plein air artists create paintings along the river, browse artwork for sale, visit with a caricature artist and shop for books highlighting the history of local jazz. Food and beverages, including sandwiches, pizza, wine, beer, popcorn and soft drinks, will also be available throughout the afternoon. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, but organizers ask that coolers be left at home.
Located about 30 minutes from downtown Toledo, Grand Rapids offers visitors the opportunity to spend the afternoon exploring its historic downtown, unique shops and restaurants before settling in for an evening of live music along the Maumee River.
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