Get ready to shake your way to New Orleans for this year’s Jazz and Heritage Fest, or simply known as – Jazz Fest. Safeguard Self Storage Harvey, LA self storage and Safeguard Self Storage Metairie, LA self storage is helping you make the most of this year’s celebration with the ultimate guide to the nation’s biggest and most popular Jazz Fest of the year. We have the tips and tricks on what to eat, who to watch and all the little details you’ll need to maximize your fest experience.
A Long History
45 years ago, a group of local music and culture lovers got together, “To promote, preserve, perpetuate and encourage the music, arts, culture and heritage of communities in Louisiana through festivals, programs and other cultural, educational, civic and economic activities.” What started as a small festival that brought in few folks has grown tremendously into the nation’s most popular celebration – with hundreds of thousands flocking to New Orleans to attend.
While it does feature jazz-style music, the festival also includes Blues, Gospel, Cajun, Funk, Hip Hop, Rock, Folk, Latin, Pop, Mardi Gras Indian Music, and a whole lot more local and worldwide genres.
And there’s other things to do than just listen to music. Great food, crafts, art and a wide variety of locally-inspired wares fill up every nook and cranny of the Fair Grounds Race Track Area.
This Year’s Talent
The list of stars performing at the Jazz Fest is endless, with names like Elton John, No Doubt, The Who, Lenny Kravitz, Jimmy Buffett, Keith Urban, Jerry Lee Lewis, Hozier, Tony Bennett paired with Lady Gaga, Cowboy Mouth, John Legend and countless others. While these will undoubtedly be some of the main events, you can experience somewhat less-known, but no less talented musicians and performers with the pro tip below.
Safeguard Self Storage Harvey, LA Self Storage Pro Tip:
It’s not just the “big” names that are worth listening to. Check out any one of the following bands for an amazing musical experience.
- Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk with guest Uncle Art Neville
- New Orleans Nightcrawlers
- Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers
- Aaron Neville
- Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
- Juvenile and Mannie Fresh
What You’ll Find
Tent after tent, stage after stage is filled with culture. There’s the Jazz Tent, and next the Blues Tent. After that you have the Gospel Tent, followed by the Heritage Stage and the Fais Do-Do Stage that houses the Cajun and Zydeco Music.
You’ll also be surrounded by local arts and crafts, and delicious Louisiana Food such as dark rue gumbo, softshell crab, alligator, crawfish and oysters.
Safeguard Self Storage Metairie, LA Self Storage Pro Tip:
The Congo Square Marketplace is the place to go for a rich cultural experience, filled with handmade clothes, jewelry, and art from the Ivory Coast, Senegal and surrounding areas. Make sure to stop and watch the craft demos in progress, as the experience of watching art come alive can’t be compared.
The Details
Where:
Fair Grounds Race Course
1751 Gentilly Boulevard, just 10 minutes from the French Quarter
When:
April 24, 25, 26 and April 30, May 1, 2, and 3
From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Ticket Info:
There are a variety of ticket options for day passes, VIP packages and more. Check them all out here.
Safeguard Self Storage Harvey, LA Self Storage Pro Tip:
Don’t worry too much about getting standard day passes in advance; they always have extra tickets available. If you’re looking for a VIP experience, hurry and get your package if it’s not already sold out.
Safeguard Self Storage Metairie, LA Self Storage Pro Tip:
Staying near the concert is always an amazing experience – but it gets really expensive. Consider using alternate sources, such as hotels outside of New Orleans such as Eastbank cities of Metairie or Kenner or Westbank cities such as Harvey or Gretna.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a veteran of the festival, the Safeguard Self Storage Guide to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Fest will help you make the most of your experience. While you’re there, take some time to explore The Big Easy; you’ll quickly discover it has something to offer both residents and visitors alike.
Fall in love with the city during your stay? We don’t blame you! Make a New Orleans move easier with Safeguard Self Storage. We have self storage locations throughout New Orleans, so call today – and find a storage solution for that fits your unique needs.