Looking for an excuse to get out town this weekend? Jazz aficionados and music lovers can flock to the San Jacinto Mountains for the annual Jazz in the Pines music festival. Nestled in the charming mountain village of Idyllwild, the outdoor summer concert kicks off at the Idyllwild Arts Academy (52500 Temecula Rd) with a patrons dinner and dance party on Friday, August 11. The music fest continues on Saturday and Sunday with an all-day line-up of local musicians including L.A.-based Eric Kufs, the Max Haymer Trio, Roy McCurdy, and the Tamir Hendelman Trio. Plus, festival goers will hear from the Jazz in the Pines founder, Marshall Hawkins, who has previously shared the stage with legendary artists like Miles Davis, Roberta Flack and Herbie Hancock.
Grab a picnic blanket, score a spot on the open field and lend your ear to over two dozen performers set against a backdrop of pine trees. You can also check out the festival marketplace for local crafts, jewelry and artwork, along with welcomed refreshments like beer, wine and margaritas (after all, it's the freaking weekend). All festival proceeds will go towards the Idyllwild Arts.