Jazz may be America’s greatest contribution to music, and New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, continues to celebrate its rich musical heritage.
Jazz, gospel, Cajun, zydeco, blues, R&B, rock, funk, African, Latin, Caribbean, folk, and many other styles of music can be heard at the festival which is taking place from April 24 to May 3.
Attendees will be able to navigate between 12 different stages or tents in order to find just what they want to hear, or to hear the variety of styles on display.
Elton John, Widespread Panic, Tedeschi-Trucks Band, Ed Sheeran, Estelle, No Doubt, Jimmy Buffet, Pitbull, Keith Urban, Wilco and Hozier make up just a fraction of the artists who will be performing over the course of the festival. The Acura Stage will feature most of the big-name acts, along with the Gentilly Stage.
While the festival is in honor of jazz, celebrates the rich culture and heritage of New Orleans as well as music. Many food items, from jambalaya to alligator pies will be available to festival-goers.
Native American, Louisiana and folk music culture will all be celebrated during the festival. The Louisiana Folk Art Village celebrates local tradesmen and women making anything from jewelry, instruments and crafts to piñatas and haircuts. The Native American Village celebrates Louisiana’s heritage with ceremonial drumming and dancing.
Storms on Monday caused the festival promoters to call off the festival to be resumed Thursday. Only minor damage was done, but the fields needed time to dry after becoming soaked in the storms that blew through. Fortunately the weather forecast looks optimistic and dry for the rest of the festival starting Thursday.
This festival is a genuine celebration of the love of music and the culture of Louisiana. Local and internationally renowned musicians alike who have the privilege to perform at the New Orleans Jazz Festival not only entertain festival-goers, but contribute to the long and diverse heritage of jazz music.
For those who aren’t able to attend the festival, you don’t have to miss out! Listen here!
