Music plays a leading role in New Orleans, the city that brought jazz into the world. While traditional jazz is revered here, New Orleans is tuned into all kinds of musical expressions. The calendar is dotted with music celebrations both epic and homespun. These festivals act as a kind of melodious Johnny Apple Seed, spreading the Gospel of New Orleans music to visitors from around the country and the world. Spring’s New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (Jazz Fest) may be the best known, but countless soul, R&B, and hip hop fans attend Essence over Fourth of July weekend. Blues aficionado? Be sure to check the lineup (and the menu) at Crescent City Blues & BBQ Fest in the fall, while all things Louis Armstrong are heralded during August’s Satchmo SummerFest. Locals love them all, but French Quarter Fest, a celebration of the city and region's top musical talent, is a New Orleans favorite. Here is a list:
Upcoming New Orleans Music Festivals