International Arts Festival 2026
Known for being a global cultural experience rooted in the African diaspora, the International Arts Festival will bring international music, culture, and business/community together in New Orleans.
From September 24 to 27, the festival will be held at The Public Market at South Shore Harbor to create, utilize, and maintain cultural bridges helping people understand culture, history, and opportunity through hands-on experiences and global connections.
The International Arts Festival expands cultural understanding while strengthening real economic and cultural opportunities through global exchange. The African diaspora is often undeserved, and the festival educates those in one of the most culturally influential communities in the world. African, Caribbean, and global cultures with New Orleans music and spirit are connected at the festival.
Located against the marina views and lake breezes, the Public Market transforms into a vibrant gathering space for art, culture, food, and community.
Featured Performers
This year's line-up consists of global icons, rising voices, and hometown legends for one weekend.
Friday's performers include Peter White from the United Kingdom, Vincent Ingala from the United States, and Big Chief Donald Harrison from New Orleans. Seun Kuti from Nigeria; Irvin Mayfield from New Orleans; Regina Belle, Paul Taylor, and Michael Lington from the United States will perform on Saturday. Bushman from Jamacia, Alexey Marti from Cuba, Collie Buddz from New Orleans and Bermuda, and Corey Henry and The Treme Funktet from New Orleans will close out the three-day festival on Sunday.
Tourism Investment Forum
The festival is a part of the Tourism Investment Forum Africa, a conference that provides the ultimate platform for destinations to accelerate economic growth and investment opportunities. TIFA highlights premier investment and tourism hubs by positioning regions for sustainable growth. Economic ambitions provide critical capital, networks, and strategic insights on investment in trade sections.
Beyond tourism, FIFA directly and indirectly contributes to the business travel and tourism economy. The forum seeks to enhance regional economic development and expand business opportunities. Global Chamber, AfriCore Consulting, and Millvest are also part of the conference.
Admissions and Ticketing
The TIFA and IAF Festival Weekend All-Access Pass can be purchased from $214.99 to $846.85. The VIP Weekend Pass Ultimate can be purchased for $422.08. For the day-pass on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, tickets are sold for $34.47. All tickets can be purchased on the festival's website.
