The 43rd Annual Celebration of the Arts Festival kicks off Sept. 11 and 12 in Delaware Water Gap.

This world-class jazz festival was founded in 1978 by the great Phil Woods, Rick Chamberlain and Ed Joubert. The COVID-19 pandemic forced cancellation last year, but the event returns to its roots with a high quality, scaled-back schedule this year.

The event’s lineup is loaded with great local artists.

The festival kicks off each day at noon.

On Saturday on the main stage, performers will include Craig Kastelnik & Friends, Nancy & Spencer Reed, Jay Rattman Group, Sherrie Maricle Band and the Water Gap Orchestra.

The Deer Head Inn will have Richard Burton, DaMoJo with Bill Washer and a jam session all starting at 6 p.m.

The well-loved Sunday morning COTA Jazz Mass will not be held this year, due to the COVID-19 risk that the hours of rehearsals and performance would pose for the enormous ensemble and choir. Look for it to be back next year.

Sunday’s Main Stage lineup starts with the Hot Takes Trio, Regina Sayles, Horizons Quartet, Adam Nussbaum Quartet and Vinny Bianchi & La Cuchina.

The Deer Head Inn will feature Walt Bibinger, Erin McClelland & Friends and a jam session all starting at 6 p.m.

Be sure to visit the artisan and food vendors for a variety of crafts and some great food.

The Dutot Gallery will also run an exhibit of jazz photos curated by Tom Ando.

Children 10 and under are free.

For tickets and further information, please visit cotajazz.org