By Carla St. Louis

Once again, Miami is preparing for a major music festival.

The City of Miami Gardens and its mayor, Oliver Gilbert, are hosting the eight annual Jazz in the Gardens, a two day star-studded event with scheduled performances by Mary Mary, Rachell Ferell, Monica, Ne-Yo, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, New Edition, Fantasia, Babyface, Najee, and more.

With such an impressive line-up, Gilbert is expecting a large audience. “This is the 8th year of “Jazz in the Garden” and we’re hitting our stride. We want to make this the best entertainment experience anyone could ever attend in the U.S. It’s gonna be an all the way live weekend,” he said.

Held at the Sun Life Stadium from March 16th-17th, this year’s festivities will be emceed by Michael Baisden, a deal that’s sure to bring at least half of his eight million listening audience from his nationally syndicated radio show.

“Baisden is one of the premiere radio personalities in the US and a connoisseur of good music and great entertainment. It’s always good to have someone with his reputation, credibility, popularity and love for a really good show on our team,” said Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert.

Aside from music, the venue will include the Food Village, an incredible collection of culinary collections from conch salad to BBQ, smoothies from local staples Reed & Son Catering, Mister BBQ, Cliff’s Restaurant, Heydi’s Latin Grill, and Happy Times.

Prior to the festival, the City of Miami Gardens scheduled the Women’s Impact Conference & Luncheon, a women-centered satellite event that’ll feature shopping, community discussion, and more.

“I’m looking forward to inviting my listeners from around the country and the world to join me for two days if food, fun and incredible music. My goal is to make this the most successful Jazz in the Gardens Festival ever,” said Baisden.

Last year, Jazz in the Gardens sold 48,000 tickets.