New Orleans Jazz Fest 2026
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is coming back for its 57th year!
The festival is one of New Orleans' biggest events, with nearly half a million in attendance just last year. So, we thought it would appropriate to give you glimpse into what you can expect for this year's edition.
Info to Know
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival runs for two
weekends from April 23 to May 3. It will take place
at the Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots.
You can purchase single day general admission tickets or
spring for four-day passes for each respective weekend. Locals will enjoy
discounted tickets on Thursdays. Find detailed information here.
Parking at the Fair Grounds is limited, and remember that the
venue resides in a neighborhood. The streets become puzzles or are altogether
blocked off for pedestrian safety. Utilizing streetcars, ride shares, and bikes can be a game changer.
Items such as small bags, small folding chairs, blankets, and
personal items including sunscreen and water are generally allowed onto the grounds.
Be sure to check the festival's website to see what you can and can't bring to the
festival.
Music Headliners
This year's Jazz Fest hosts a massive lineup with over 5,000
artists across 14 stages. Artists such as David Byrne, Lorde, the Alabama
Shakes, Stevie Nicks, and the Eagles will be among the festival's many headlining acts.
While the festival continues to grow every year, bringing in many internationally recognized musicians, it maintains its integrity as a homegrown, cultural symbol of New Orleans. This year is no exception. More than just local legends, Cyril Neville and George Porter Jr. (performing this year George Porter Jr. & Runnin' Pardners) took the stage for Jazz Fest's inaugural year in 1970 and will do so again this year. Four years later, Irma Thomas made her festival debut and has been a Jazz Fest staple since.
Other local legends headlining this years' Jazz Fest includes Big Freeda, Trombone Shorty, Jon Batiste, and more.
The Culture and Exchange Pavilion is celebrating Jamaican culture with artists such as Ziggy and Stephen Marley and Sean Paul headlining, bringing a taste of Jamaica's rich reggae and dancehall culture.
Food & Drinks
There will be many food vendors splayed around the racetrack.
Festivalgoers will primarily find vendors organized into Food Areas 1 and 2, as
well as Heritage and Congo squares and around the grounds. Look for the red squares on the festival map.
The truth is that no matter where you turn, you're sure to
find something uniquely delicious. That said, there are a few especially
noteworthy dishes to dig into at Jazz Fest.
The Crawfish Monica is a pasta dish with crawfish tails combining
heavenly spices and creamy goodness. It was crafted in the mid-80s by Chef
Pierre Hilzim after his wife, Monica, and has been a Jazz Fest staple ever
since. You can find it in Food Area 2 at Big River Foods.
Love at First Bite/Walker's Cochon de Lait Po-Boy could be
considered a Jazz Fest headliner in its own right. First introduced to the
festival in 2001, this sandwich has grown a loyal fanbase over the years. You
can grab one in Food Area 1.
Finally, y'all got to stop by Ms. Linda's Catering and get some honest to God YaKa-Mein. This is a Creole-Chinese fusion dish that is truly the best of both worlds. It's incredibly tasty, and some say it's the best cure for hangovers. You can find it in Food Area 1.
Arts & Crafts
Over 250 arts and craft vendors will be showcasing their
work at Jazz Fest this year. The lineup features regionally and nationally
renowned artisans of all stripes. They can be found in three main locations:
Congo Square, the Contemporary Crafts Area, and the Louisiana Marketplace.
Congo Square features art that reflects the African cultures that helped to bring New Orleans to life. The demo tent will have live demonstrations for
ancient crafting techniques.
Contemporary Crafts is all about bringing acclaimed
craftspeople together from all over the world.
The Louisiana Marketplace brings together regional architecture,
music, and culture. Locals will feel right at home, and visitors will get an
authentic look into the artistry that has fueled south Louisiana for centuries.
Special Events
Jazz Fest isn't just at the Fair Grounds. It's a cultural
moment happening all across the city. Here are some special events hosted by
the foundation.
The Jazz Fest Gala returns on April 22, with special guests The Wailers and Julian Marley. The gala kicks off this years' Jazz Fest, with the theme "From Kingston to Congo Square: One Love, One Music, One People," in honor of the festival's spotlight on Jamaica this year.
The 2026 Johnny Jackson Jr. Gospel is Alive! Celebration is a morning of music and honors. On the morning of April 27 at the Rock of Ages Baptist Church, this free to attend event has an incredible lineup of gospel singers and choirs from around the city.
