Explore the Best Annual Music Festivals in New Orleans

New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant and diverse music scene, with a plethora of annual music festivals throughout the year. Whether you're a die-hard jazz fan or enjoy a mix of genres, there's something for everyone in this iconic city. From the biggest draw, Jazz Fest, to more intimate events like the French Quarter Fest, there's always a reason to visit New Orleans and celebrate music.

Welcome to the Best Annual Music Festivals in New Orleans

New Orleans has a rich musical heritage, and many of these festivals are a celebration of that history. From Jazz Heritage Festival to Voodoo Fest, here's a guide to the best annual music festivals in the city.

Top Picks

Jazz Fest

Jazz Fest (New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival) is the city's biggest and most famous music festival. It draws huge crowds and is renowned for its incredible lineup of both local and international acts. The festival is typically held in April and can get quite expensive due to high demand. Despite the crowds and the lack of shade at the fairgrounds, Jazz Fest remains a beloved event for music lovers. If you're keen to experience the whole festival, consider purchasing a 'brass pass' from WWOZ New Orleans 90.7 FM, which provides re-entry and access to their hospitality tent. However, be prepared for potential weather disruptions, as thunderstorms can cancel outdoor events and mud becomes a common issue in rainy conditions.

French Quarter Fest

For a more laid-back and free experience, the French Quarter Fest is an excellent choice. Held in April, it's the perfect event to catch the cool, yet comfortable temperatures in the mid-80s. The festival features multiple stages in the historic French Quarter, including a beautiful stage setup along the Mississippi River. The best part is that it's entirely free, making it accessible to everyone. You can enjoy food, local music, and the festive atmosphere of the French Quarter. It's a great opportunity to soak in the city's charm and culture while enjoying the music.

Voodoo Fest

Voodoo Fest is another must-visit event for music lovers, especially those who enjoy a younger, more urban vibe. This festival, held in November, is set up in City Park and features a mix of rock, alternative, and hip-hop acts, along with impressive art installations and vendors. It may be more expensive, but you can still save some money by purchasing a wristband for the weekend in advance. The atmosphere is electric, and it's a perfect end to the autumn season in New Orleans.

Other Notable Festivals

There are many other smaller yet equally thrilling festivals in New Orleans. Here are a few highlights:

Bayou Boogaloo

Held in May, Bayou Boogaloo takes place on the banks of the bayou with live music, food, and plenty of fun. Despite the heat, it's a delightful experience with lots of floats on the water, making for a memorable event.

Treme Festival

In October, the Treme Festival focuses on traditional New Orleans music with only one stage in Armstrong Park. It's a great opportunity to explore the rich musical heritage of the Treme neighborhood.

Zydeco Festival

Held in June, the Zydeco Festival features one stage in Armstrong Park, focusing on the unique and lively sound of Zydeco music.

Additionally, many food festivals also feature live music, such as the Po-Boy festival, Bignet Festival, Muffuletta Festival, and the Freret Festival, which has multiple stages of music.

How to Participate

There are several ways to enjoy these festivals, whether you're looking to stand in the crowds or help out. If you want to attend Jazz Fest, you can volunteer, but you need to contact the organizers well in advance. Similarly, if you're interested in Voodoo Fest, you can also volunteer for free entry.

Final Thoughts

New Orleans is a city of music, and these annual festivals are just a few of the reasons why. From the famous Jazz Fest to the laid-back French Quarter Fest and the exciting Voodoo Fest, there's always something new to discover. Whether you're attending as a visitor or a resident, these festivals are a testament to the city's enduring love affair with music. So, pack your umbrella or parasol, and get ready to experience New Orleans at its best!