One of the more charming nicknames for Cape May, NJ, is “Exit Zero.” If you are not familiar with the summer exodus to the Jersey shore on the Garden State Parkway, you might not get it; but Cape May is virtually the last exit (or the first) on the 172-exit Parkway. Hence, Exit Zero! Riffing off of that idea is the appellation of the twice-annual Jazz Fest. To familiarize you with this year’s fall offering, we have put together your guide to Exit Zero Jazz Autumn Festival. As it is the 11th year of the Festival, it will certainly be special!
As with all popular festivals, tickets, and lodging can sell out quickly! We strongly suggest that you book your lodging and secure your tickets early for the concerts you are most anxious to attend!
Dates: November 9-12
This year, the fall jazz festival will be taking place entirely indoors! Many of the performances will be at the Cape May Convention Hall, but you can also purchase tickets for concerts at several smaller venues throughout Cape May.
Thursday, November 9
On Thursday night, there is a special Cape May Jazz Festival Foundation opening night concert with an auction to help raise funds to bring music to New Jersey students both at the festivals and throughout the year. This year, the performing band will be Orrin Evans and the Captain Black Big Band featuring Dianne Reeves. Tickets for this performance must be purchased separately.
Tickets & Passes
Tickets for the Jazz Night Concerts can be purchased online. There is a fee involved, but you can pick your seat. You may also purchase tickets by calling 609-849-9202. Phone sales end November 8.
You may purchase same-day tickets or passes at the Cape May Convention Hall as follows:
- Thursday, November 9: 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm
- Friday & Saturday, November 10 & 11: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Sunday, November 12: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Festival passes are available with several level options:
3-day VIP ($280)
Gives you guaranteed floor seating for all performances (Friday – Sunday) at the Convention Hall. Access to VIP Hospitality Room with complimentary water, coffee, tea, fruit, grab and go snacks. First-come, first-serve entry to all festival clubs.
2-day VIP ($200) -Choose either Friday & Saturday OR Saturday & Sunday
Same as a 3-day VIP pass, but only for 2 days
3-day General Admission ($200)
Guaranteed mezzanine seating for all performances at the Convention Hall, first-come, first-served entry to all festival clubs.
Friday General Admission ($80)
Guaranteed mezzanine seating for all performances at the Convention Hall, first-come, first-served entry to all festival clubs.
Saturday General Admission ($100)
Guaranteed mezzanine seating for all performances at the Convention Hall, first-come, first-served entry to all festival Clubs.
Sunday General Admission ($65)
Guaranteed mezzanine seating for all performances at the Convention Hall, first-come, first-served entry to all festival Clubs.
Cape May Brew Company All Weekend Club Pass (November 2 – 11) ($75)
First-come, first-served entry into all festival clubs for the weekend. It does not allow entry to the Convention Center.
Parking | Food
You will need to find on-street parking in Cape May. Meters will be in effect. No outside food/alcohol is allowed.
Artist Lineup
The lineup this year is nothing less than impressive. Here is this year’s lineup. To give you a sample, here is a sneak peek of the artists coming into Cape May this fall:
- Abdullah Ibrahim Trio
- Omara Portunondo
- Etienne Charles and Creole Soul
- Meshell Ndegeocello
Just to name a few!
Our guide to Exit Zero Jazz Autumn Festival gives you one reason to come visit Cape May this fall. Come stay for a weekend full of music, relaxation, and making memories! Our beachside resort hotel offers couples or families elegant accommodations with touches that feel like home. Book online today or contact us anytime for further information. We are gearing up for an amazing fall — you don’t want to miss out!
Updated August 2023
