By Tiffany Williams –
It’s almost that magical time of year again! The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, affectionately known as Jazz Fest, is just around the corner, set to run from April 24 to May 4. This annual celebration is a vibrant tribute to the rich music and culture of New Orleans and Louisiana, drawing crowds from near and far.
New Orleans, famously recognized as the birthplace of jazz, offers a unique tapestry of musical history. Jazz Fest showcases a diverse array of genres, including blues, R&B, gospel, folk, Cajun, and bluegrass, to highlight the city’s profound musical heritage.
But Jazz Fest is not just about music; it’s a delightful fusion of sound, taste, local crafts, and lively attractions. With an impressive lineup featuring the biggest names in the jazz world, the festival sprawls across twelve dynamic stages and tents, complemented by four colorful parades. It’s a weekend filled with non-stop revelry and infectious energy.
Imagine indulging in a sensory feast, sampling mouthwatering dishes like crawfish enchiladas, perfectly paired with refreshing craft beers. Are you ready to immerse yourself in this culinary and musical extravaganza?
Where to Stay and What to Eat*
As Jazz Fest draws near, New Orleans becomes a bustling hub, so it’s wise to secure your accommodations early. Choice Hotels offers a variety of options that blend comfort with convenience, especially if you book ahead. Many locations provide easy access to Uber, the go-to choice for getting around this lively city.
One standout option is the Cambria Hotel, ideally located in the heart of downtown, just six blocks from the famed Bourbon Street in the vibrant Warehouse District. The French Quarter, adorned with historic charm, is merely a stroll away.
What I adore about the Cambria Hotel is its proximity to an array of trendy bars, music clubs, and eclectic eateries, making it a perfect base for exploration. The hotel’s design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding historic architecture, featuring a striking red brick façade and oversized windows that pay homage to the city’s rich past. Inside, you’ll find an industrial-chic aesthetic, infused with bold furnishings and striking decorations that reflect the creativity of local artists.
Unwind at the U-Bar, the hotel’s stylish full-service restaurant and lounge, where you can savor a blend of American and Creole cuisine, paired with craft cocktails and locally brewed beers. The state-of-the-art fitness center ensures you can stay energized while enjoying your travels. After a day of festivities, retreat to spacious guest rooms featuring spa-inspired bathrooms outfitted with luxurious PURE bath products and premium bedding for a restful night’s sleep.
Another excellent accommodation choice is the Comfort Suites New Orleans East, situated just three miles from the Jazz and Heritage Festival. It’s conveniently located 20 minutes from the iconic Bourbon Street and a plethora of downtown bars and restaurants. Just like at Cambria, the reliable Uber service makes it easy to navigate the city.
If relaxation is what you seek after a busy day, Comfort Suites boasts a well-equipped fitness center and an inviting outdoor pool where you can unwind. And do not miss out on visiting Walker’s BBQ, famed for its cochon de lait po-boy—an absolute must-try during the festival.
Food, Food, Food
As a self-proclaimed foodie with a passion for Louisiana cuisine, I can’t stress enough: arrive at Jazz Fest with an appetite, ready to explore new culinary delights that will surely leave you exhilarated and satisfied.
The jazz fest culinary offerings are a celebration of time-honored traditions paired with modern adaptations, prepared with the freshest seafood, produce, and the state’s renowned charcuterie. You’ll discover an extensive menu featuring authentic recipes that embody the spirit of the region, crafted from scratch with love and care.
This year, Jazz Fest welcomes back a host of beloved vendors, alongside a few exciting newcomers.
Vaucresson’s Sausage Company of New Orleans serves up an array of mouthwatering options, including the best hot sausage po-boy, alligator sausage po-boy, and even a delectable crawfish sausage po-boy, along with jerk chicken and hogshead cheese.
If you’re a fan of crawfish bread or shrimp bread, make sure to pay a visit to Panorama Foods.
For those who relish cajun jambalaya and crispy fried chicken, Catering Unlimited is a must. Gallagher’s Grill will be on-site as well, offering delicious dishes like Catfish Pecan Meuniere and fried crab cakes with smoked tomato tartar.
And if you crave boiled Louisiana crawfish or fried alligator served with homemade pepper jelly, Clesi’s Seafood Restaurant has you covered.
This is just a glimpse into the incredible array of food vendors available at the festival, including Ten Talents Catering, Smoke Street Catering, LLC, Burks & Douglas, Stufhapn Event Catering, and, of course, my personal favorite, Walker’s BBQ. The options are endless, so come hungry, and prepare to indulge in a culinary adventure that you won’t soon forget!
Musical Performances
The schedule cubes for the highly anticipated 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival have been unveiled, detailing performance times and stage assignments that fans have been eagerly awaiting. These cubes enable both seasoned Jazz Fest enthusiasts and first-time attendees to meticulously plan their musical journeys through this iconic event.
This year’s festival launches on Thursday, April 24, under the vibrant theme of “Viva Mexico,” celebrating the rich cultural ties between the U.S. and Mexico through music and art.
A star-studded lineup awaits festival-goers, featuring renowned artists such as Luke Combs, Lil Wayne & The Roots, John Fogerty, Pearl Jam, Kacey Musgraves, Santana, Lenny Kravitz, Burna Boy, Cage the Elephant, Laufey, Tems, Harry Connick Jr., My Morning Jacket, and HAIM—showcasing a diverse range of genres that promise to captivate audiences across the two weekends of spring.
Among the homegrown talent, beloved Louisiana natives like Big Freedia, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and Irma Thomas will return to grace the stage, enriching the festival with their local flair and musical heritage.
During the first weekend, expect to experience exhilarating performances from John Fogerty, Kacey Musgraves, Dave Matthews Band, and Lil Wayne & The Roots on the Festival Stage. On the Shell Gentilly Stage, the sounds of HAIM, James Bay, Irma Thomas, Harry Connick Jr., Cheap Trick, and Goose will fill the air, while the Congo Square Stage will host the legendary Gladys Knight, Babyface, the Soul Rebels, and Burna Boy.
The second weekend will be equally electrifying, featuring the iconic Santana, country sensation Luke Combs, the funky sounds of Dumpstaphunk, rock legends Pearl Jam, and the spirited Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, all performing on the Festival Stage. The Shell Gentilly Stage will showcase Cage the Elephant, the powerhouse Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, and the enchanting Laufey, while the Congo Square Stage will come alive with performances from powerhouse vocalists Tems, Patti LaBelle, and the charismatic Morris Day & The Time.
With an impressive total of 650 performances scattered throughout its two weekends, the festival promises an exhilarating experience for all attendees.
Tickets for Jazz Fest
Excitement is in the air as tickets for Jazz Fest 2025 are finally on sale! You can easily secure your spot through the official festival website. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with options for both weekend passes and single-day tickets. The general admission and VIP packages are tailored for each weekend, granting access to all three days of the selected weekend.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Jazz Fest offers four unique VIP opportunities that elevate your festival attendance. The GA+ package provides exclusive access to a stylish lounge complete with private restrooms, a full-service bar, and a shaded retreat to unwind between sets. The sought-after Big Chief VIP Experience ticket package offers special viewing access at the festival’s many stages, ensuring you don’t miss a note. The Grand Marshal VIP Pass brings you closer to the action with up-close access at the festival’s three major stages, while the Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP Pass ensures you enjoy comfortable, covered seating in the audience area of the Festival Stage.
Cashless Experience
This year, Jazz Fest embraces a cashless policy for tickets, food, beverages, crafts, and merchandise booths. If you arrive with cash in hand, don’t worry—cash exchange booths will be conveniently located near key vending areas throughout the venue to facilitate smooth transactions.
Items You Should Bring
Prepare to relax and enjoy the soulful sounds by packing essential items such as collapsible chairs, cozy blankets, and ground tarps—perfect for setting up your spot to soak in the music across the picturesque fairgrounds. Sunscreen is a must to protect yourself from the sun’s rays while you revel in the festivities. Remember, aside from factory-sealed water bottles, small personal snacks are welcomed to keep your energy up throughout the day.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at Jazz Fest!