15/01/2025
The Inspiring Journey of Jazz Night
Jazz Night began in 2005 as a collaboration between three Utah State University departments: the USU Jazz Program, USU Catering, and the University Inn. Together, they created an unforgettable event that paired live Big Band swing music, gourmet dining, and vibrant swing dancing. Hosted in the Skyroom on the top floor of the Taggart Student Center, the event transported guests to the glamour of the 1930s, complete with vocalists in vintage attire, intimate lamp-lit tables, and a dance floor under string lights. The USU Big Band Swing Club offered complimentary swing dance lessons before the event, further enriching the experience. The unique evening quickly became a beloved tradition, selling out by its third year and establishing the Larry Smith Jazz Scholarship to support aspiring jazz students.
In 2018, the event found its perfect home at the historic Elite Hall in Hyrum, Utah. It revives its community-focused charm by donating half of the event’s proceeds to restoring the 115 year old building. Renamed Jazz Night at Elite Hall, it continues to draw nearly 600 attendees annually, blending history, music, and dance in a setting that evokes the Big Band era.
Join us this year to mark the special 20 year anniversary of Jazz Nights!
