The 2018 Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival returns to Saratoga Performing Arts Center on Saturday, June 23 and Sunday, June 24 with an extraordinary roster of artists, ranging from jazz luminaries — Jon Batiste, Chris Botti, Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter, Joey Alexander, and gospel and R&B legend Mavis Staples, who will headline this year’s legendary festival — to emerging artists making their Saratoga debuts such as José James, Lakecia Benjamin and SoulSquad, Scott Sharrard & The Brickyard Band, Jazzmeia Horn and Keyon Harrold.

In addition, unique collaborations and ensembles never-before-seen at the festival will take center stage including the Saratoga debut byTEN, which features Terri Lyne Carrington, Esperanza Spalding and Nicholas Payton.

Performances begin at 11am on both days on the newly built Charles R. Wood “Jazz Discovery” Stage, formerly known as the Gazebo Stage. Performances on SPAC’s Amphitheater Stage will begin at 3pm.

New this year is also “Freihofer’s Jazz Fest Friday,” a new initiative in collaboration with the Saratoga County Chamber which will bring together local musicians performing in venues across Saratoga Springs on June 22 to celebrate the rich history of jazz in the region.

For tickets or more information, visit spac.org.