The Duke Ellington Jazz Festival (DEJF) is an annual celebration named in honor of musical genius and native Washingtonian Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington. Each year, thousands of music lovers come together in the nation’s capital to share in the city’s rich jazz history, to see local and world-renowned jazz artists and to pay tribute to legendary jazz greats.

It will feature popular, signature events including the all-day extravaganza "Jazz on the National Mall" concert, the popular "Jazz ‘n Families Fun Day," the classic "Celebrating NEA Jazz Masters Concert" at the historic Lincoln Theatre, the "DEJF Educational Series" and, the free "International Jazz Showcase" at the Kennedy Center. Additionally, special performances and programs will be held at the Inter-American Development Bank, the National Museum of Women in the Arts, the Voice of America, the Atlas Performing Arts Center and THEARC, as well as in clubs throughout the city.