Warm Up This Winter with Williamsburg’s Hottest Music Festival

Every January, Williamsburg, Virginia, comes alive with the soulful sounds of jazz and blues during the annual Winter Blues & Jazz Festival. Now celebrating its 11th year, the festival, presented by CultureFix and the City of Williamsburg, offers four days of music, art, and celebration from January 17–20, 2025. Set against the historic charm of Williamsburg, the festival invites music lovers to immerse themselves in a weekend designed to entertain, educate, and inspire.

Friday Kick Off with Mixology and Live Music

The festivities kick off Friday night with the Opening Night Mixology & Music event at the William & Mary Alumni House. Guests will sip on expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying the dynamic sounds of Brasswind, setting a lively tone for the weekend. The energy continues late into the night with the Friday Night After Party featuring Billy Joe Daniel’s Blues Jam at Culture Cafe and a soulful performance by Wyatt Michael back at the Alumni House.

Saturday Sounds: A Day of Jazz, Blues, and Unforgettable Performances

Saturday promises a full lineup of immersive musical experiences, kicking off with a morning workshop led by jazz expert Tony Mata, offering a deep dive into the artistry and technique behind jazz music. At noon, acclaimed pianist Justin Kauflin takes the stage for The Art of Jazz, blending soulful melodies with captivating storytelling in an intimate performance. As night approaches, The Big Bluesy ignites the stage with electrifying sets from powerhouse performers Roberta Lea and Katie Henry. For those ready to keep the rhythm going, the Saturday Night After Party offers two dynamic options: groove to the bold sounds of Michael Hawkins & The Brotherhood at the Alumni House or soak in the funky energy of Robb Torgler’s Raw Beets at Culture Cafe.

Sunday Serenade: Relax, Recharge, and Celebrate with Live Music

Sunday kicks off with the rich flavors and lively rhythms of New Orleans at the Jazz Brunch, featuring the soulful sounds of Matt Fattal’s 504 Supreme. The afternoon slows to a soothing pace with the Sunday Chillout, where Hoot & Annie create a relaxed, acoustic atmosphere perfect for unwinding. As the day reaches its peak, the energy surges with La Fiesta Domingo, a vibrant celebration of Latin music led by the electrifying Kadencia—bringing Sunday to a thrilling close.

Monday Reflection: Honoring Dr. King with Soulful Gospel Sounds

The festival concludes on Monday with a powerful Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute, honoring his enduring legacy of justice and equality. The Legendary Ingramettes will uplift the Alumni House with soul-stirring gospel music, delivering a moving and inspirational finale to the weekend’s celebration of culture and sound.

A Decade of Soulful Sounds: Williamsburg’s Winter Tradition Lives On

For over a decade, the Winter Blues & Jazz Festival has transformed Williamsburg into a dynamic hub of music and culture, blending world-class performances with the town’s rich history and charm. From intimate jazz sessions to high-energy blues shows, the festival offers a rare opportunity to experience diverse musical styles in an inviting and historic setting. With its thoughtfully curated lineup, engaging workshops, and vibrant after-parties, this unforgettable weekend is more than just a festival—it’s a tradition that celebrates the heart and soul of music. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this uniquely soulful winter escape.

Featured Musicians

BrassWind: Grown Folks Music  

BrassWind delivers an electrifying blend of authentic sound and high-energy performances, driven by a powerhouse rhythm section, dynamic vocalists, and their signature high-octane brass. Since forming in 2018, the band has expanded its lineup and musical range, becoming one of the most diverse and sought-after party bands in the region. Comprised of retired and active-duty military members alongside original founding educators, BrassWind is deeply rooted in both musical excellence and community. Their mission remains unwavering: to bring high-quality, timeless music back to Hampton Roads and beyond—performed the way it was meant to be heard. 

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Billy Joe Daniel’s Blues Band

Billy Joe Daniels is a versatile and dynamic musician, bringing an eclectic genre-spanning repertoire that guarantees to entertain any audience. From smooth instrumental Brazilian jazz to the freshest Hip Hop, Billy’s musical range covers a wide spectrum, ensuring every performance complements the atmosphere—whether it’s a morning gig or a late-night show. His ability to engage with a responsive crowd allows him to add his own twist to classic favorites and give modern hits a timeless feel. Billy performs in a variety of configurations, from solo to duo with his talented wife Katie Daniels, who also adds her beautiful vocals to their performances. 

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Wyatt Michael

Wyatt Michael’s musical journey began at a young age when he was introduced to piano and developed a deep appreciation for music, though it wasn’t until his time with the rock band Chasing Avenir that he truly began to find his voice. As the band gained recognition, Wyatt discovered jazz standards and was captivated by the emotional depth, vocal phrasing, and timeless expression of the genre, ultimately deciding to focus on becoming a jazz singer. His debut solo album, Renaissance, released in 2019, features never-before-released songs by jazz legend David Mann and showcases Wyatt’s dedication to preserving the history and emotion of classic jazz. In just two years of full-time singing, Wyatt’s talent earned him a spot on season 21 of The Voice, where he impressed both Kelly Clarkson and Ariana Grande during the Blind Auditions. Whether performing at a formal event or a community gathering, Wyatt Michael is committed to honoring the legacy of jazz and recreating the passion of music’s golden age.

Tony Mata