Guide to Satchmo SummerFest
Experience the premier jazz festival dedicated to the life and music of New Orleans' Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong.
At a Glance
- Satchmo SummerFest is a free annual jazz festival in New Orleans celebrating the life and legacy of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. Held in early August at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, it features live music, food vendors and educational programming.
- Satchmo SummerFest was founded in 2001 to honor Armstrong’s 100th birthday and has since become an annual New Orleans tradition that includes family-friendly activities, indoor exhibits and cultural festivities.
Discover New Orleans' rich musical heritage at the annual Satchmo SummerFest, a multi-day jazz festival celebrating the life of Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong. With live performances across two stages, an indoor lecture series and lots of locally made beer and cuisine, festival-goers are sure to get a taste of the Big Easy’s vibrant culture.
What to Know:
Who is Louis Armstrong? New Orleans native Louis Armstrong hit his stride in the 1920s as an inventive trumpet and cornet player. His style of music was influential in the jazz genre by inserting solo performances into the collective improvisational music. Armstrong’s recognizable gravelly voice also made him famous as a vocalist. He enjoyed scat singing, or vocalizing using sounds and syllables instead of actual lyrics. Armstrong’s career ended in the 1960s as a famed, popular and highly influential musician who continues to leave his imprint on the world of jazz. Learn more about Louisiana’s jazz history.
What is Satchmo SummerFest? The first SummerFest was held in 2001 to celebrate what would have been Louis Armstrong’s 100th birthday. Thousands of Louisianians and visitors showed up to celebrate Armstrong, and the tradition began. Now, Satchmo SummerFest is held annually on the first weekend of August at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. The festival is free and open to the public and features live music, local food and non-food vendors, indoor seminars and lectures, and more.
Festival Information:
Music: Experience live music all weekend featuring traditional jazz, contemporary jazz, brass bands and children's programming across multiple stages. From up-and-coming artists to festival veterans who have taken the stage for years, to Grammy-nominated (and winning) acts, you'll get a taste of all the musical talent Louisiana has to offer. View the full music lineup.
Special Events: Get a deeper appreciation for the festival with a visit to the Satchmo Legacy Stage - which features a variety of national and international speakers, including jazz scholars, people who knew and worked with Louis Armstrong, historians, Armstrong House Museum faculty and musicians. Past presentations have included discussions, live music and film clips about New Orleans jazz and the life and music of Louis Armstrong. View the seminar options.
Food and Drink: No New Orleans party would be complete without amazing Louisiana food and drink. Abita Brewing serves up the Official Beer of Satchmo SummerFest. Try out some of the fabulous cuisine that Louis Armstrong loved, plus dishes from local vendors. View the food vendors.
Frequently Asked Questions about Satchmo SummerFest
What is Satchmo SummerFest?
Satchmo SummerFest is an annual music festival in New Orleans dedicated to celebrating the life, legacy, and music of jazz legend Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. The festival features live jazz performances, local food, cultural lectures, and educational programming focused on Armstrong’s impact on music history.
Is Satchmo SummerFest free to attend?
Yes — Satchmo SummerFest is free and open to the public, making it one of New Orleans’ most accessible cultural festivals. Some food, drinks and merchandise are available for purchase on-site.
Where does Satchmo SummerFest take place?
The festival is held at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, located at 400 Esplanade Avenue in the French Quarter. Most performances take place outdoors on the museum grounds, with additional programming inside.
When is Satchmo SummerFest held?
The festival typically takes place in early August, often timed to coincide with Louis Armstrong’s birthday on August 4. It is usually a two-day weekend event.
Can you bring food or drinks into Satchmo SummerFest?
No — outside food, drinks, coolers and large containers are not allowed inside the festival grounds. The festival showcases classic New Orleans cuisine from local vendors including Cajun and Creole dishes, seafood specialties and festival favorites that reflect the city’s culinary culture.
