Clearwater Jazz Holiday Will No Longer Be Free

Out of necessity, boom, they did it.

For the first time in 33 years, the free, four-day Clearwater Jazz Holiday will not be free.

For years now, Clearwater Jazz Holiday Foundation members have wrestled with the decision to charge for the festival, but a continued drop in corporate backing and grants led to a $10 advanced admission daily for the concerts planned for Oct. 18-21 at Coachman Park, foundation consultant Gary Hallas said.

"It's no decision that came lightly by the foundation," Hallas said.

Children younger than 12 will get in free with a paying adult. Specially priced, four-day passes are also available.

Up-and-coming folk rockers the Avett Brothers top the list of headliners announced this week, which also includes local smooth jazz star Mindi Abair performing with Jeff Golub and David Pack on Oct. 19, and Bonnie Raitt on stage the opening night of the festival. 

Hallas said there still are 11 more acts to announce for this year's event, including the headliner for Saturday night.

"It's Clearwater's signature event. The foundation wants to keep it that way and make it possible for a great many people to enjoy," Hallas said. "There are plenty more musicians and artists to announce, and we are looking forward to a fantastic year."