Summer Is Scoring Big: Jazz in the Court Returns to Hyde Park This June!

Hyde Parkers, dust off your sunglasses and get your lawn chairs ready. One of our absolute favorite neighborhood summer traditions is officially back to provide the perfect soundtrack to your weekends.

The 2026 lineup for Jazz in the Court has just been announced, bringing a stellar wave of free, live music right into the heart of Harper Court on select Fridays throughout the summer. Whether you are looking to escape the office for a dynamic lunch break, trying to kick off your weekend early, or just eager to soak up the local culture, this series is exactly where you need to be.

The 2026 Lineup: Genius, Trust, and Pure Soul

This year’s series spans from June to September, bringing an incredible array of talent to the stage:

  • Friday, June 5 (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM) | Meagan McNeal: Kick off the summer series with the powerhouse vocals and soulful sounds of Meagan McNeal.
  • Friday, July 10 (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM) | Oscar Brown Jr. “100 Years of Genius” Tribute: Mark your calendars for these special extended hours! We are celebrating a century of a true Chicago legend and cultural icon with a massive tribute concert.
  • Friday, August 7 (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM) | Julian Davis Reid’s Circle of Trust: Bring your friends out to experience the deeply moving, collaborative, and improvisational mastery of Julian Davis Reid.
  • Friday, September 11 (12:00 PM – 2:30 PM) | Quentin Coaxum Quintet: Close out the warm-weather season with the rich brass tones and modern jazz energy of the Quentin Coaxum Quintet.

Shop, Dine, and Groove in SSA #61

Jazz in the Court isn’t just about the music—it’s about celebrating everything that makes Special Service Area (SSA) #61 – Hyde Park such a vibrant place to live, work, and play. Because Harper Court is nestled right in the center of Hyde Park’s bustling business district, you have the perfect excuse to make a whole day out of it.

Before the music starts, grab a coffee from a local café. Once the tunes get rolling, pick up lunch from one of the neighborhood’s fantastic eateries to enjoy out in the courtyard. Afterward, take a stroll down the block to explore the incredible independent boutiques, bookstores, and local shops that anchor SSA #61. Supporting our local businesses while enjoying world-class music? That is a win-win.

Event Logistics & Behind-the-Scenes

  • Where: Harper Court – 5235 S. Harper Court, Hyde Park
  • When: Select Fridays (June 5, July 10, August 7, September 11)
  • Time: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM (Note: The July 10 tribute features extended hours until 5:00 PM)
  • Admission: FREE!

This incredible community tradition is proudly sponsored by the University of Chicago, produced by the talented Samuel J. Lewis II, and kept lively by our wonderful Emcee, Wendy Walker Williams. The entire 2026 series is held in loving memory of the late, great Carolyn Albritton, keeping her spirit alive through the music she loved so dearly.

For more details, performer updates, and to plan your Fridays, head over to the official website at hpjazz.com. See you in the courtyard!

 

 

 

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