Daylong ‘Jazz it Up’ festival in Mt. Airy to benefit homeless Philadelphia families

The Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network will be holding its second annual ‘Jazz it Up’ event on Sunday.

The daylong jazz festival at the 7165 Lounge in Mt. Airy will benefit the expansion of affordable housing options for low-income families in Philadelphia. 

The event will kick off with a jazz brunch from noon to 3 p.m., followed by an afternoon jazz party and buffet. The day will close out with an “old-school dance party” from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. featuring DJ Mike Hurt. 

“We felt that music could bring people in the community of varied backgrounds together for a good cause,” said Justin Fink, who is producing the event. “The event also reflects the kaleidoscopic diversity of Philly’s vibrant jazz community, and the generosity and philanthropic spirit of the musicians, most of whom are donating their time and talents.”

The festival will feature a range of jazz styles including “Philly-style” hot brass from the New Sound Brass Band; soul from the Michael Beckham Quartet; Latin jazz from Pablo Batista’s Mambo Jazz Express; Jewish jazz from The Fabulous Spielkehs and much more. 

Proceeds from the event will support emergency services — including food, clothing and shelter — for homeless families in Philadelphia as well as helping to connect those ready to move from shelter to independent, family-friendly, affordable housing options in safe neighborhoods.

“The payoff is housing safety and security for children and families that can be sustained over time,” said Fink. 

Tickets are available by calling (215) 247-4663 ext. 102 or by visiting www.philashelter.org.