July Events You Don’t Want to Miss: Balcones Heights Jazz Festival

What better way to beat the heat on a hot summer night than by listening to some cool jazz? Mark your calendar for the annual Balcones Heights Jazz Festival taking place throughout the month of July.

Past Festivals

2015 marks the 22nd year of this entertaining festival in the San Antonio Central suburb of Balcones Heights. Past shows have featured internationally acclaimed artists such as guitarists Peter White, Paul Brown and Nils and saxophonists Joseph Vincelli and Jeff Kashiwa.

Amphitheater at Wonderland of the Americas

This spectacular outdoor venue is located adjacent to the Wonderland of the Americas mall. Lush lawn seating allows you to truly relax and enjoy the pleasant sounds. A beautiful reflecting pool adds to the natural ambiance. You are welcome to bring blankets or lawn chairs for your comfort. There are food and beverage stands onsite for your convenience, or you could head to the food court in the nearby mall. 

This Year's Event

The 2015 festival is scheduled for July 10, 17, 24 and 31, which are all Fridays. Jazz enthusiasts arrive in the morning to scope out the best spots, so plan to arrive early to get a good seat. Admission is free for all visitors and the shows take place rain or shine.

Festival emcee is David Muñoz, host of the popular "Sunday Morning Jazz" on Q101.9. His show is the only locally-produced commercial radio jazz show in San Antonio, and he has been emceeing the festival for 19 years. Show times are at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. each night. Visit the website to sign up for email updates, including information about this year's musical lineup.

Outdoor music and art festivals are a staple of summer. Are any of them on your calendar for the upcoming season? Tell us all about them in the comments!