1) Drama: A Brief History of the Second Line
NOCCA Stage, 12:20 p.m.
Food and music are what a lot of people come to Jazz Fest to experience. Do not forget to take part in some of the cultural and educational events going on. We live in an awesome city and Jazz Fest offers a chance to appreciate New Orleans even more. What is more New Orleans than the Second Line tradition?
2) Ottertail Native American Dance Troupe
Native Nations, Noon, 1:10, 2:30 p.m.
Formed in 1992 by a variety of southern tribes, the Grammy award-winning Ottertrail Dance Troupe is a virtual powerhouse of both traditional singing and dancing styles. Mr. Don Neconie and his son, Pete "Echohawk,” were instrumental in passing along the teachings of southern plains music. Their name represents an important item of clothing worn by the Native straight dancer, the otter drag.
3) Amanda Shaw
Gentilly Stage, 2:05 p.m.
Amanda Shaw may look like the part of a pop star but she is a lot more than just a pretty face and sweet voice. Her folk rock/roots sound is unforgettable, not to even mention how she can kill it on the fiddle. Anyone looking for a refreshing take on Cajun music needs to check out Amanda Shaw & The Cute Guys.
4) Meschiya Lake & the Little Big Horns
Blues Tent, 3 p.m.
The Blues Tent at Jazz Fest is always a good time. Some of the best blues acts fill this stage with some of the sounds that make our city so unique. Meschiya Lake and The Little Big Horns will be at the Blues Tent performing at 3 o'clock on Thursday, and if you want swingin' beat, great lines, and music you can dance to this is a show you need to go check out.
5) Fi Yi Yi and the Mandingo Warriors
Jazz & Heritage Stage, 3:10 p.m.
Victor Harris takes the spirit of the Fi Yi Yi in this Mardi Gras Indian tribe. He and the Mandingo Warriors all have heavy roots in African tradition. Harris masks in a very unique way that draws awe and praise from many. This downtown tribe always puts on a good show.
6) Widespread Panic
Acura Stage, 3:45 p.m.
Widespread Panic will be headlining at the Acura Stage from 3:45 to 7:00, and it is hard to imagine an act that will exemplify what Jazz Fest is all about more than Widespread Panic. One of the most sought after rock acts in the early 2000s, the band has gone through some changes and is energized after coming off a 10-month hiatus. Be sure catch at least some of their act on Thursday.
7) Vaucresson's Sausage Co.
All Day
Vaucresson's Sausage Company has been making sausage in the 7th Ward commercial corridor in New Orleans since 1899. One could venture to assume that they are pretty damn good at making sausage. If you are wandering around Food Area I and are craving a po-boy but seafood is not quite savory enough, go check out the lineup at Vaucresson's stand. You will not be disappointed.
8) DiMartino's Famous Muffulettas
All Day
Muffulettas are a New Orleans staple that you are missing out on if you don't try one while in town for Jazz Fest. The Gretna-based DiMartino's Famous Muffulettas is a great option in Food Area I. There is even a vegetarian muffuletta for those who are so inclined. If muffulettas are not your thing, they will also be serving roast beef po-boys and turkey giardiniera po-boys.
9) New Orleans Coffee Co.
All Day
If you are one of the troopers who gets out early to Jazz Fest, or are someone who is struggling after going out the night before, you might need some coffee. New Orleans Coffee Company is there to help you out in Food Area II. They will be serving up some cafe au lait (Hot, Iced, or Frozen) or just regular black coffee (Hot or Iced) for all the coffee addicts at the festival.
10) John Sims Artwork Congo Square African Market
All Day
John Sims, of Birmingham, AL, will be at Tent N in the Congo Square African Market, showcasing some of his breathtaking art. His art is composed of textured sand with acrylic paint on canvas board with silk fabric; if you do not know what that means, you should go check it out because it is absolutely gorgeous.
