ROCHESTER, N.Y. — For the first time in more than two years, the sound of jazz will fill the streets of downtown Rochester again.

The CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival is back for a week and a half.

The beloved and long-missed event will kick off on Gibbs Street at 4 p.m. on Friday. Concerts on Gibbs Street are free.

New this year, there will also be a beer garden set up on Gibbs Street under the clear-top tent with extra tables and seating.

Crowds can also enjoy free music at Parcel 5 at 5, 7 and 9 p.m. with headliner Chris Botti at 9.

For Jazz Fest Club Pass holders, there are more than 10 venues that will be accessible with the pass throughout the entire run of the festival. Those venues include the Hyatt Ballroom and the Little Theatre, which has been through a recent renovation. 

"We're anxious but anxious in a good way," said Jazz Fest executive director and co-producer Marc Iacona. "We've gotten so many phone calls and emails saying 'we're so glad you're coming back, we can't wait.' So many patrons that are coming back and some new people that have never been to this festival. They've heard the stories. They moved here to town and they can't wait. So you know what, there's a little bit of pressure but in a good way. We like that pressure."

The Jazz Fest runs through June 25. For the full festival lineup, schedule and list of vendors, click here.