Festival season has officially begun!
Coachella weekend one set off the season with incredible performances by headliners such as Sabrina Carpenter and Justin Bieber, leaving those at home with a major case of FOMO. Don’t fear—if you aren’t able to make it to the desert for Coachella, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is right around the corner and only an hour away.
Here’s a guide with some helpful things to know:
History of Jazz Fest
Jazz Fest was founded in 1970 by George Wein and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. New Orleans native Mahalia Jackson, referred to as the greatest gospel singer of all time, attended the first New Orleans Jazz Festival. Somewhere in between festivities, Mahalia, alongside Duke Ellington and the Eureka Brass Band, led a second line through the festival grounds. George Wein handed Ms. Jackson a microphone—she began to sing along with the band, and that’s how the spirit of Jazz Fest was born.
The purpose of the festival is to preserve and celebrate music, art, culture, and the heritage of Louisiana. It also provides a stage for local artists, as well as musicians from all around the world.
When/Where?
Weekend 1: Thursday, April 23rd–Sunday, April 26th
Weekend 2: Thursday, April 30th–Sunday, May 3rd, 2026
Fair Grounds
1751 Gentilly Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70119
The Lineup
Throughout the two weekends, there is an eclectic lineup of incredible icons such as Rod Stewart, Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Nicks, RAYE, and Jon Batiste, just to name a few.
Picture courtesy of New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Where to stay?
If you’re coming from out of town, take your pick of places to stay. There’s an array of historic hotels like St. Vincent, The Eliza Jane, The Columns on St. Charles, or The Chloe.
Check out more options here:
https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-boutique-hotels-in-new-orleans-for-character-rich-colorful-stays
What to wear?
Jazz Fest is the time to dress for comfort. Rain boots are a great idea due to muddy parade grounds. Shorts, sundresses, and other breathable clothing are a must since temperatures are predicted to be in the mid-80s with sunny days ahead. However, a poncho will come in handy for unexpected showers. Hats and sunglasses are highly advised due to the amount of sun exposure festivalgoers will face. Don’t forget your SPF and remember to stay hydrated.
Food
New Orleans is a city known for many things, with music and food being two of the most popular attractions. Lucky for you, Jazz Fest has both. There’s something on the menu for everyone: fried chicken, jambalaya, crawfish beignets, soft-shell crab or hot sausage po-boys, and even alternatives like the vegan combo plate from Sweet Soul Food Vegan Cuisine. If you have a sweet tooth, cool down with a strawberry lemonade or a sno-ball.
Take a look at other menu items:
Picture courtesy of www.neworleans.com
Where to still purchase tickets
General admission tickets are still available, as well as the waitlist for VIP. To purchase, visit www.nojazzfest.com
If you have time for sightseeing, you’re in the perfect city to do so. Visit Café du Monde, have a picnic in City Park, browse boutiques and bakeries on Magazine Street, and if you need more music, venues and bars around the city—like those on Frenchmen Street, Tipitina’s, and The Peacock Room—offer audiences an up-close, personal experience for $15 or free.
Happy festival season, Tigers!
