One of Clearwater’s longest-running music traditions returns next week with four nights of jazz, funk, soul, blues and roots music spread across the downtown waterfront.

The 47th Clearwater Jazz Holiday runs Thursday, October 15, through Sunday, October 18, at Coachman Park, bringing nationally known headliners together with regional performers and free side-stage music before the evening concerts.

This year’s format puts the main stage back on the large green overlooking the water, giving the festival a classic outdoor feel while still offering reserved seating and general-admission access for people who want the best view of the headliners.

Thursday opens with trumpeter Chris Botti, following an earlier set featuring Kim Waters, Jeff Kashiwa and Steve Oliver.

A festival lighting ceremony is also scheduled Thursday evening, adding a little extra ceremony to opening night.

Friday shifts toward Latin jazz, funk and percussion with Arturo Sandoval followed by Sheila E. & The E-Train on the main stage.

Saturday changes gears again with blues and brass, including Big Sam’s Funky Nation and a closing set from Larkin Poe.

Sunday wraps the weekend with a roots-and-funk mix that includes Dumpstaphunk Plays Sly and The Wood Brothers.

That variety is one reason Clearwater Jazz Holiday continues to work for people who do not necessarily think of themselves as traditional jazz fans.

The lineup moves well beyond a single genre, and each day has a different personality.

The festival is also making it possible to take in part of the experience without buying a main-stage ticket.

Daily pre-party performances on smaller stages in the Lower Plaza and Promenade Pier areas are free and open to the public before the headliners begin.

The Sunset Bluff area is also free and open daily for visitors who want a more relaxed park experience, with blankets and lawn chairs allowed there.

For the strongest view of the main concerts, however, festival organizers recommend reserved seats or general-admission access on the green.

Blankets and lawn chairs are limited to the Sunset Bluff and designated general-admission lawn areas, so checking the festival rules before packing the car is worthwhile.

Coachman Park’s downtown location makes this an easy event to combine with dinner, drinks or a walk along the waterfront.

Visitors driving in should still allow time for parking, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

Downtown garages and lots surround the park, and local visitor information notes that some city garages offer free parking after 7 p.m.

Using ParkMobile or arriving before the headliners can reduce some of the last-minute parking scramble.

The festival begins at 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday, with gates opening at 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

For Clearwater, this is more than a concert weekend.

Clearwater Jazz Holiday has become part of the city’s October identity, drawing visitors downtown while giving local musicians and music students a place in the same larger celebration.

Whether you plan around one favorite headliner or simply want an evening of music by the water, next weekend offers four very different ways to experience the festival.

Official information: Clearwater Jazz Holiday and Coachman Park.