Your Guide to the Marcus Anderson Jazz and Coffee Escape

In its second year in Durham, North Carolina Central University alumnus and two-time Grammy-nominated saxophonist Marcus Anderson's Jazz and Coffee Escape has sold out. If you're lucky enough to be a pass holder, it's time to get excited for a weekend of musical performances, after parties, activities and more – and that's just during the festival! Make the most of your trip by exploring Durham's dining, nightlife, history and more.

What to Expect at the MAJACE Festival

After the first year's success in Durham, the festival's second season sold out quickly. If you're planning your trip to Durham for the festival, be sure to pack your best purple ensembles and get ready for a great weekend in the Bull City –

When: July 24-26, 2025
Where: One location for all events! Hilton Durham near Duke University, 3800 Hillsborough Rd.
Weekend Theme: 50 Shades of Purple

MAJACE Lineup

One thing is for sure, you're in for an entertaining weekend. Marcus Anderson and his band, The Creatives, headline the weekend while a lineup of jazz pioneers, djs, line dance instructors and comedians keep the energy high all weekend long.

When Should I Arrive for the Festival?

The festival begins bright and early Thursday, July 24, with a golf tournament, panels and activities leading up to the evening musical performances. To be sure you don't miss a thing, plan to come in on Wednesday evening for a MAJACE reunion and group outing.

When Does the Festival End?

Events for standard ticket holders end with the festival afterparty late Saturday evening. Book your stay through Sunday to make the most of your festival weekend and allow yourself time for a leisurely brunch on Sunday.

Taste the Music with And Coffee

The festival not only brings great music to Durham, but a coffee experience to match. Taste Marcus Anderson's And Coffee throughout the weekend, take some home with you to remember your experience at the festival.

Where to Stay During MAJACE

There are two official festival hotels near the venue. Check the hotel websites for availability.

• Hampton Inn and Suites Durham, 1206 Cole Mill Rd.
• Hilton Durham Near Duke University, 3800 Hillsborough Rd.

Other Hotels Near the Festival

If you can't stay at the official hotels, don't worry. Book a stay near Duke University and you'll be a short ride away from the festivities.

Hotels near Duke University

If you'd like to balance your festival experience with a weekend in Durham, check out our hotels in downtown Durham where you'll be close to award-winning dining and nightlife.

Hotels Downtown

What to Do in Durham During MAJACE

The festival lineup is jam-packed with fun events and activities you won't want to miss, but between our award-winning dining and nightlife, community events and the world-famous Durham Bulls, there's plenty of reason to get out and explore. Here are a few suggestions for things to do during your stay –

• For the foodie – explore our award-winning dining scene and experience a meal from a James Beard Award-winning or -nominated chef, including authentic international cuisine, classic North Carolina seafood and so much more.
• For the nightlife enthusiast – sip on expertly made craft cocktails, tour a distillery, sip on local brews or tuck into a dive bar.
• If you want to get to know downtown – explore downtown's seven distinct districts. You can even enjoy a cocktail while you stroll.
• For the history buff – take our self-guided walking tour to go a little deeper on Durham's story.
• For the art enthusiast – get inspired by Durham's creative community in our art galleries and museums.
• For an outing near the festival – get to know Duke University's campus attractions.
• To learn about Durham's Black History and Culture – check out our African American Heritage Guide to get to know the stories behind Durham's rich Black community and culture. Pick up your own copy at the Visitor Info Center downtown or request a copy by mail.