New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, 23rd April

More than just a music festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a celebration of New Orleans itself. It’s a vibrant party that rivals Mardi Gras, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience the city’s soul-stirring music, delicious food, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time attendee, the Jazz Fest promises an experience that will stay with you long after its end.

📅 WHEN: 23rd April – 3rd May 2026

📍 LOCATION: Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots, New Orleans, LA, United States

🎤 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Lineup

Eagles ● Stevie Nicks ● Rod Stewart ● Kings of Leon ● Lainey Wilson ● Teddy Swims ● Lorde ● Jon Batiste ● Tyler Childers ● David Byrne ● The Black Keys ● T-Pain ● RAYE ● Tedeschi Trucks Band ● Nas ● Widespread Panic ● Earth, Wind & Fire ● Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit ● Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue ● Alabama Shakes ● St. Vincent ● The Isley Brothers ● Herbie Hancock ● Ziggy Marley ● Lake Street Dive ● Mavis Staples ● The Revivalists ● Carlos Vives ● Sean Paul ● Dianne Reeves ● Irma Thomas ● Blind Boys of Alabama ● Burning Spear ● Stephen Marley ● Cyril Neville ● Rhiannon Giddens ● Big Freedia ● Little Feat ● Samantha Fish

For the complete lineup, visit the official New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival website.

Last updated: April 7, 2026

🎶 Discover the Essence: What the NO Jazz Fest is All About

Often called simply Jazz Fest, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a vibrant 8-day springtime celebration. Meanwhile, across multiple stages, soulful jazz, funky brass bands, zydeco beats, and blues-rock rhythms fill the city. Taste mouthwatering Cajun cuisine, join colorful second-line parades, and dance with Mardi Gras Indians in unforgettable New Orleans traditions!

Where It All Began: The Roots of New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

The Louisiana Heritage Festival was created by George Wein, an American jazz promoter, pianist, and producer. Although just 350 attended the first Jazz Fest in 1970, featuring legends like Mahalia Jackson, Duke Ellington, and Fats Domino, it now attracts hundreds of thousands annually. Today, the festival celebrates both local and international talent at the historic Fair Grounds Race Course.

Swinging Roots and Rhythms

Attendees can enjoy performances ranging from traditional and contemporary jazz, blues, and gospel to R&B, rock, funk, Cajun, zydeco, Afro-Caribbean, folk, Latin, rap, country, and bluegrass. As already revealed in the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival lineup, get ready for a wild ride with incredible performers! Joining them are the enchanting Diana Krall (velvety jazz elegance) and the groove king himself, PJ Morton (feel-good R&B vibes). If you crave music with complexity, emotion, and improvisation, this festival was made for you. Moreover, it’s not background noise – ultimately, it’s a destination allowing you to feel every note. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is calling your name!

A Vibrant Marketplace of Art

People naturally seek connection, find inspiration in others’ creativity, and create something of their own. Likewise, during the two festival weekends, don’t miss the lively marketplaces filled with unique creations and incredible artists. Congo Square bursts with music, culture, and vibrant crafts from the African Diaspora. From bold jewelry to soulful art, the Contemporary and Louisiana Marketplaces celebrate the spirit of NOLA – New Orleans, Louisiana.

A Flavorful Journey Through Culture at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Dive into Louisiana’s rich cultural gumbo at Jazz Fest with live crafts, float-making, and hands-on cultural experiences. Explore pow wow dancing, delicious local eats, and vibrant art at the Native American Village and Grandstand. Then travel the world at the Cultural Exchange Area – packed with global music, flavors, and unforgettable performances.

🗺️ How to get to New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Hop on the Jazz Fest Express – your VIP ride straight inside the gates, running daily from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm! You can catch it from four spots French Quarter (Steamboat Natchez Dock), Sheraton Hotel, Hyatt Regency, and the Wisner Lot. Grab tickets on-site or at the fest exit – easy, breezy, and fest-ready! Parking is extremely limited, so skip the stress – get dropped off, walk, or bike to the festival instead!

🛏️ Where to Stay

Some hotels might hook you up with a shuttle to the festival grounds – don’t be shy, ask when you book!

Budget-Friendly Hostels and Youth Accommodations:

HI New Orleans Hostel: Recharge on a comfy bunk behind a privacy curtain and get ready to connect with fellow travelers before diving into another epic festival day!

Mid-Range:

Oakview Bed and Breakfast: Opting for a bed and breakfast offers a more local, unique vibe—on a prime spot for festival access.

Luxury:

Sheraton New Orleans Hotel: Perfectly located on Canal Street by the French Quarter, Sheraton New Orleans is the trusted choice guests return to for work and fun—year after year.
Le Méridien New Orleans: Be greeted with smiles, sink into comfort, and unwind in a spacious room after hours of festival frenzy!

🍔 Where to Eat: Taste of the Fest

At the Jazz Fest Venue: When it comes to flavor and foodie heaven, this fest is easily at the top of the game. Jazz Fest serves up authentic Louisiana flavors across multiple food areas – featuring seafood, charcuterie, and scratch-made regional classics. With returning favorites and exciting new vendors, come hungry, explore every booth, and leave full and happy!
Liuzza’s by the Track: If you want to eat outside the fest grounds, grab a bowl of authentic gumbo at Liuzza’s by the Track – local, dive-y, and absolutely delicious.

🎒 What to Pack for the Festival

Festival Essentials

ID/passport
Festival tickets/passes
Card
Comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking and dancing a lot!)
Lightweight clothing for warm, sunny days
Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Sunscreen
Hidden-pocket Scrunchie keeps your ponytail high and your essentials close – stylish and smart!