Thin Man Watts Jazz Festival Returns to DeLand

Annual event celebrates renowned saxophonist and supports at-risk youth programs.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:13am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring bold, angular shapes in shades of blue, yellow, and black, conceptually representing the energy and rhythm of a jazz festival.The annual 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest in DeLand celebrates the legacy of a local jazz legend while supporting youth arts programs.DeLand Today

The 17th annual 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest is set to take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Second Stage Theater at Stetson University in DeLand, Florida. The festival honors renowned saxophonist Dr. Noble 'Thin Man' Watts, a DeLand native, and will feature live jazz performances as well as poetry readings. The event is organized by Exodus United, a Central Florida-based nonprofit that serves at-risk youth through arts and education programs.

Why it matters

The 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest is a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the musical legacy of a local jazz legend while also supporting important community initiatives for underserved youth. The festival draws jazz enthusiasts from across the region to DeLand, providing an economic boost and cultural enrichment for the city.

The details

The 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest will run from noon to 6 p.m. on April 25, 2026 at the Second Stage Theater on Stetson University's campus in DeLand. In addition to live jazz performances, the event will feature poetry readings and other artistic programming. Exodus United, the nonprofit organizing the festival, provides arts education and mentorship to at-risk youth in Central Florida.

  • The 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest takes place annually on the fourth Saturday of April.
  • The 17th edition of the festival will be held on April 25, 2026.

The players

Dr. Noble 'Thin Man' Watts

A renowned saxophonist and DeLand native who the annual jazz festival honors.

Exodus United

A Central Florida-based nonprofit that serves at-risk youth through arts and education programs, and is the organizer of the 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest.

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What they’re saying

“The 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest is a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the musical legacy of a local jazz legend while also supporting important community initiatives for underserved youth.”

— Exodus United, Organizer

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest will go on sale in early 2026, with early bird discounts available for a limited time.

The takeaway

The 'Thin Man' Watts Jazz Fest is a cherished event that not only honors the musical contributions of a local icon, but also invests in the next generation of artists and community leaders through Exodus United's youth programs.