FREE Summer Concert with James Bazen Big Band
The FREE Summer Concert with James Bazen Big Band is an outdoor evening performance at Glen Echo Park’s historic Bumper Car Pavilion. The James Bazen Big Band is an 18‑piece ensemble that delivers a wide‑ranging repertoire of energetic jazz and swing. In addition to original compositions, the orchestra plays innovative works from Stan Kenton, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Gordon Goodwin, Bob Mintzer, Buddy Rich, and other big‑band legends. The concert is free and open to the public, with bench seating provided and a limited number of folding chairs available on a first‑come, first‑served basis; attendees are encouraged to bring their own folding chair if possible. The event runs rain or shine, and free parking is available in the main lot at 5801 Oxford Road.
When: Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Showtimes: One performance at 7:30 pm
Tickets: Free; RSVPs are preferred but not required. A suggested donation of $10 supports the park’s free festivals and concerts.
Lineup: James Bazen Big Band – 18‑piece big band performing jazz and swing, including original pieces and works by Stan Kenton, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Gordon Goodwin, Bob Mintzer, Buddy Rich, and others
Run time: 60 minutes
Ages: All ages welcome; the volunteer opportunity (setup/breakdown) is suitable for ages 16 through adult
Venue: Bumper Car Pavilion at Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD 20812
Parking: Free parking in the main lot at 5801 Oxford Road; see the park map link for details
Food & Drink: Beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks are available for purchase in the Bumper Car Pavilion courtesy of Praline. Outside alcohol is not permitted.
Accessibility: The park is accessible; bench seating is provided, and limited folding chairs are available first‑come, first‑served. The concert takes place in a covered outdoor pavilion.
Note: Concert is rain or shine (cancellations only for severe conditions such as extreme heat advisories, as happened with a prior concert in the series). Volunteers are needed each concert evening from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm; SSL hours are available.