The Ultimate Guide to New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

For more than 50 years, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival — known to locals as Jazz Fest — has brought together millions of people from around the world to celebrate jazz in Louisiana. The grand event unfolds every year during the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May.

Spanning eight days, the festival features performances on multiple stages around the Fair Grounds Race Course, bringing with it dozens of nightly performances at New Orleans’ music venues.

History of New Orleans Jazz

Sprouting from the culture of New Orleans music in 1970, Jazz Fest was created to celebrate New Orleans’ jazz legacy. The first lineup included legends like Mahalia Jackson, Duke Ellington, Fats Domino and Al Hirt. For decades, the festival has remained a steadfast representation of the city's vibrant culture, food and, of course, community.

Today, you’ll find a variety of genres represented at the festival, including Cajun zydeco, Delta blues, rock, rockabilly, gospel, hip-hop, salsa and swamp pop. Past lineups have included popular artists like Elton John, Foo Fighters, Lizzo, Jimmy Buffet and Stevie Nicks.

You won’t want to miss the stages showcasing homegrown artists like Harry Connick, Jr., Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Preservation Hall Jazz Band and Big Freedia. While you’re at the festival, you’re likely to spot the Mardi Gras Indians, who impress year after year with their eye-catching costumes.

Little Freddie King, Blues Musician Performing at Jazzfest

Past performers include greats like Little Freddie King.

A parent with their child on their shoulders watches a performance at Jazz Fest.

Everyone is welcome to attend the festival.

Hands hold three bright orange mango freezes at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

Savor treats you can only find at Jazz Fest, like Mango Freeze.

Trombone Shorty raises his instruments above his head while performing at Jazz Fest.

Experience high-energy sets across genres.

How to Make the Most of New Orleans Jazz Fest

Experience the Cultural Exchange Pavilion

While the main stages are a big draw, a visit to the Cultural Exchange Pavilion is always a good idea. Each year, the pavilion highlights a different culture from around the world, showcasing daily on-stage musical performances, demonstrations and exhibits.

Indulge in Authentic Cajun and Creole Food

Brass-band sound may be the star of the weekends, but the festival would be nothing without the food booths. Vendors serve up local and international dishes, reflecting the culture of New Orleans and beyond. You can't go wrong with any of these tasty bites, but a fan favorite every year is Crawfish Monica. This creamy, cheesy dish of pasta and crawfish will give you the energy you need for all-day festival activities. Don’t worry, there are plenty of vegetarian options as well. When you need to cool off, make sure to grab a Mango Freeze for a refreshing bite — it's sweet, smooth and, most importantly, cold!

Shop ‘Til You Drop

There are three markets at Jazz Fest, boasting mostly Louisiana-made products. Congo Square African Marketplace is energetic with music, arts and crafts. Here you'll find an array of local, national and international artisans exhibiting ancient crafting techniques. Contemporary Crafts is your destination to find handcrafted clothing, leather goods, paintings, sculptures and jewelry, while the Louisiana Marketplace features traditional and modern art inspired by the cultural landscape of the Bayou State. And don’t forget your commemorative Jazz Fest poster!

Don't Miss the Gospel Tent

Jazz Fest began with spontaneous joy. When Mahalia Jackson, aka "The Queen of Gospel," joined a second-line parade through Congo Square (a place where formerly enslaved African Americans could gather to sing, dance and eat), the festival was born. Jazz Fest carries on a spirit of Black joy, resistance and liberation each year through its Gospel Tent. Hear performers from around the world sing of faith and hope in the tradition of those who walked before them.

Pack for the Heat

While the days are full of fun and spectacular music, they can also be long, so make sure you pack sunscreen, a hat and a folding chair. You can also bring a small soft-sided cooler filled with sealed bottled water.

Bring the Whole Family

Jazz Fest is a great event for all ages — strollers are allowed (no wagons) — and there's a kids area featuring acts just for the little ones each day.

Bonus Tip:

The first Thursday of Jazz Fest is deemed Locals Thursday and is notorious for lighter crowds. The day is open to all, but if you’re a Louisiana resident, you qualify for a discounted entry. Visit the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival website for details.