South Walton Announces Inaugural Jazz Festival: SOWAL Jazz Fest, Nov. 6–8, 2025

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South Walton is striking a new cultural chord this fall with the launch of its inaugural SOWAL Jazz Fest, a three-night celebration of world-class music and community connection. From November 6–8, 2025, the festival will transform some of 30A’s most beloved venues into intimate jazz clubs, offering unforgettable performances that benefit the non-profit SOWAL Foundation.

Audiences can choose from two evening showtimes—6 p.m. and 8 p.m.—at every venue. Each ticket grants access to a specific performance, allowing guests to design their own festival journey. With tickets starting at just $50, every guest is guaranteed a seat, whether selecting VIP Reserved Seating or General Admission Seating.

Featured Performances

  • Frank Sinatra Tribute – Josh Sirten and The Velvet Jazz Quartet bring Ol’ Blue Eyes’ greatest hits to life at SOWAL House on Thursday and Friday nights.
  • Billie Holiday Tribute – Sheila Ford with The Velvet Jazz Quartet captures the haunting beauty of Lady Day at SOWAL House on Saturday night.
  • Amy Winehouse Tribute – Teresa Lombardi and The Midnight Muses Quartet channel Winehouse’s raw power and passion at Distillery 98, all three nights.
  • The Quiet Storm – Jazz legends Bobbie Storm, Wayne Mitchum, and Jimmy Ward deliver coastal jazz and Southern soul at Black Bear’s Bar Room, all three nights.

Venues

  • SOWAL House – A cultural hub renowned for its intimate, world-class performances.
  • Distillery 98 – A lively blend of craft cocktails, local art, and insider distillery experiences.
  • Black Bear’s Bar Room – A cozy Grayton Beach hideaway, perfectly suited for soulful, up-close jazz.

A Message from the Foundation

“As President of the SOWAL Foundation, I deeply respect the work of other arts non-profits in our community. What makes us different is our focus on producing metropolitan-style cultural experiences right here in South Walton—while also providing funding for local artists to pursue their passion projects and giving them a platform to share their work. Jazz Fest embodies that mission: world-class performances, intimate venues, and meaningful support for our creative community.” – Dave King

Supporting the Arts

Proceeds from the festival directly benefit the SOWAL Foundation, the non-profit arm of SOWAL House, ensuring continued investment in local artists and cultural infrastructure.

Ticket Information

Tickets begin at $50 per show and are available now at www.sowaljazzfest.com. Each ticket guarantees entry to one performance. Guests may select VIP Reserved Seating or General Admission to personalize their festival experience.