2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, scheduled from April 24 to May 4
Probably the second biggest event in New Orleans every year behind Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest like most of the local festivals has grown in popularity over the years and now has visitors from all over the world that attend the two-weekend music fest. The festival is held at the racetrack in Mid City, about 5 miles outside of the French Quarter. Parking, Rideshares, and the Trolley can all be a pain. The best bet for those with the funds is an Airbnb near the track if you can’t crash a local party. Otherwise, hotels in the quarter are the next best option.
Jazz Fest Acts
Most of the music as Jazz Fest isn’t really Jazz. Big rock acts dominate the scene now, but earlier in the day you can catch some very cool local and smaller acts, including some Jazz. Other types of music with a local flare one of personal favorites, is Zydeco. Brass Bands music is the most popular genre of local New Orleans music. The biggest local act these days from new Orleans is Trombone shorty, and he puts on an unforgettable show. Trombone shorty has made it to the headliners stage these days.
The 2025 JazzFest lineup
The Line boasts a diverse lineup of renowned artists across various genres. Headliners include Pearl Jam, Dave Matthews Band, Luke Combs, Lil Wayne & The Roots, Lenny Kravitz, Kacey Musgraves, and Santana. Other notable performers are John Fogerty, Burna Boy, HAIM, Cage The Elephant, Harry Connick Jr., Patti LaBelle, Trombone Shorty … featuring Julian Marley, Big Freedia … featuring Jelly Joseph, Preservation Hall Jazz … Morris Day & the Time, … featuring Karriem Riggins and … Lila Downs, Mariachi … , Hans Williams, Alfredo Rodriguez.
Quick Facts
- First Festival: April 1970
- Location: Fair Grounds Race Course, New Orleans, Louisiana
- Attendance: Over 400,000 annually
- Founder: George Wein, with support from the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
- Duration: 2 weekends (late April through early May)
History of New Orleans Jazz Festival.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, affectionately known as Jazz Fest, began in 1970 as a modest celebration of Louisiana’s rich musical and cultural traditions. Organized by jazz impresario George Wein, the first festival was held in Congo Square, a historic site where enslaved people once gathered to play music, dance, and preserve African traditions. The inaugural lineup included legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson and jazz icon Duke Ellington, setting the tone for what would become a world-renowned event.
Despite a humble beginning — with only a few hundred attendees — the vision was clear: to create a festival that honored the deep cultural roots of New Orleans while providing a platform for both local and international artists. By 1972, the festival moved to its permanent home at the Fair Grounds Race Course, accommodating the rapidly growing crowds and allowing for multiple stages, food booths, and cultural exhibits.
Throughout the decades, Jazz Fest expanded beyond its jazz origins, embracing the full spectrum of Louisiana music, from Cajun and zydeco to blues, funk, gospel, and even rock and hip-hop. It became not just a music festival, but a powerful celebration of heritage, featuring Mardi Gras Indians, second line parades, local crafts, and regional cuisine. Today, Jazz Fest stands as a cornerstone of New Orleans culture — a reflection of the city’s soul and a testament to its resilience and creativity.
Culture & Cuisine
- Renowned for its authentic Louisiana cuisine: crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, po’boys, beignets, and more.
- Craft and art markets highlight local artisans and traditional crafts.
- Live Mardi Gras Indian performances and cultural exhibitions bring New Orleans traditions to life.
🌟 Notable Past Performers
- Aretha Franklin
- Bruce Springsteen
- Stevie Wonder
- Prince
- Elvis Costello
- B.B. King
- The Rolling Stones (scheduled 2019, canceled due to health)
