Jazz Fest 2026 in New Orleans: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Experience

Photo Credit: neworleans.com

Key Takeaways

• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2026 runs April 23 – May 3 at Fair Grounds Race Course with multi-genre performers like Eagles and Stevie Nicks.
• Jazz Fest 2026 features extensive local Louisiana food vendors and cultural marketplaces alongside music stages throughout the Fair Grounds.
• Festival operations at Fair Grounds require cashless payments and no re-entry once exiting, per official attendee guidelines.

Planning a trip to New Orleans this spring? You’ll want to put Jazz Fest 2026 on your calendar! Officially known as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Jazz Fest is one of those can’t-miss NOLA experiences — equal parts music festival, food fest, and cultural celebration.

This year’s lineup includes big-name headliners like the Eagles and Lainey Wilson, plus an incredible mix of local musicians, cultural performances, and the kind of food festival people dream about long after they leave. Whether it’s your first Jazz Fest or you’ve been before, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to enjoy Jazz Fest 2026 like a local.

What is Jazz Fest?

Jazz Fest (the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival) is one of the Big Easy’s most popular events. A tradition since its start in 1970, Jazz Fest is a musical showcase of big names and local favorites across multiple stages. While jazz is at its heart, the musical genres represented at Jazz Fest span from blues and gospel to rock, R&B, country, and more. Paired with an array of local, made-from-scratch cuisine, cultural performances, and local artisans, Jazz Fest is a beloved New Orleans tradition for a reason.

Held over two long weekends each spring, Jazz Fest is a must if you have the chance!

Jazz Fest 2026 Dates & Location

When is Jazz Fest 2026?

Each year, Jazz Fest takes place over two four-day weekends – the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May. Jazz Fest 2026 starts on April 23 and ends on May 3, 2026. 

Weekend 1 is Thursday, April 23 – Sunday, April 26, with events and performances by favorites like Rod Stewart, Stevie Nicks, and Kings of Leon scheduled each day from 11 AM – 7 PM. 

Weekend 2 is Thursday, April 30 – Sunday, May 3, with even more big names (like the Eagles, Lainey Wilson, and T-Pain) scheduled. 

Book a stay for one long weekend (or both)! If you’re able to stay for both weekends and get the full Jazz Fest experience, there is always plenty going on around New Orleans during the week in between events. 

Where is Jazz Fest 2026?

Jazz Fest 2026 is located at the Fair Grounds Race Course at 1751 Gentilly Boulevard, ten minutes from the French Quarter. 

Tickets and Pricing for Jazz Fest 2026

Tickets for Jazz Fest 2026 are available now. You can purchase a 4-day weekend pass starting at $399 (with payment plans available). If you’re a Louisiana resident, you can access special pricing starting at $319. (Single-day tickets are available closer to the event.)

There are also a variety of VIP packages available to purchase as well. Ranging from  $659 to $2000+, VIP packages include a range of special perks from souvenir tickets and covered lounges with private restrooms and full-service bars to exclusive front-of-the-house viewing areas, VIP parking, and special shuttles. VIP tickets often sell out, so you’ll want to purchase those early if you’re interested.

Musical Lineup: Who is performing at Jazz Fest 2026?

Jazz Fest delivers yet again! The 2026 lineup of performers includes so many favorites from every genre. Rather than list them all, here are a few of the top acts you can expect to see at Jazz Fest 2026. While we don’t have a detailed schedule yet (“the cubes” are released closer to the event), be sure to plan your visit for the weekend your favorites are playing!

Weekend 1: April 23-26 

Stevie Nicks, Rod Stewart, Kings of Leon, Lorde, Jon Batiste, Tyler Childers, David Byrne, Raye, Nas, Sean Paul, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, St. Vincent, Irma Thomas, The Isley Brothers, The Revivalists, Carlos Vives, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and more.

Weekend 2: April 30-3

Eagles, Lainey Wilson, Teddy Swims, The Black Keys, T-Pain, Widespread Panic, Earth, Wind & Fire, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Alabama Shakes, Herbie Hancock, Ziggy Marley, Lake Street Dive, Mavis Staples, and more.

Find the full musical lineup here. “The cubes” (a detailed schedule in grid form) is available about one month before the festival.

What to Eat at Jazz Fest 2026

Jazz Fest isn’t just about the music. While some festivals might just have food to keep you sated, the food and drink vendors at Jazz Fest are out of this world. You’ll find two main food areas and lots of other places to grab a bite throughout the Fair Grounds. 

In terms of cuisine, it’s a full cultural food fest. You can sample everything from traditional Louisiana fare and local seafood to Vietnamese, Jamaican, and barbecue. There are vegetarian and vegan options, as well as plenty of favorites for kids, including some seriously delectable desserts.

To give you an idea of what to expect, here are some favorite food items at Jazz Fest 2026:

• Alligator Sausage Po-boy
• Crawfish Bread
• BBQ Chicken Sandwich
• Red Beans & Rice with Sausage
• Fried Soft Shell Crab Po-Boy
• Pheasant, Quail & Andouille Gumbo
• Boudin
• Cajun Jambalaya
• Muffuletta
• Hummus with Pita
• Shrimp Yakisoba
• Grilled Veggie Taco
• Jamaican Chicken
• Vegan Sweet Heat Cauliflower
• Fried Plantains
• Praline Stuffed Beignet
• Sweet Potato Pie
• Old Fashioned Handmade Ice Cream Sandwich
• Strawberry Shortcake
• Mango Freeze
• Bananas Foster Cheesecake
• White Chocolate Bread Pudding
• Gourmet Popsicles

Find a full list of food vendors and their menus here.

Tips for the Best Jazz Fest 2026 Experience

To help you plan your Jazz Fest 2026 experience, we’ve put together some of the questions our guests frequently ask about Jazz Fest, as well as tips from our local New Orleans team. 

What should I wear to Jazz Fest?

Late spring in New Orleans is typically warm — and sometimes downright hot — so plan to wear lightweight clothing or breathable layers. Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, hat) is essential since shade is limited. While a few trees and covered stages offer brief breaks from the sun, most of the festival takes place out in the open. 

Comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll be walking between stages and spending plenty of time standing (and dancing!), so supportive footwear will make a big difference. Keep an eye on the forecast too — Jazz Fest happens rain or shine. Umbrellas are allowed, and rain boots are highly recommended if there’s been recent rain. Even one heavy downpour can leave the Fair Grounds muddy for days, sometimes for both festival weekends.

What should I bring to Jazzfest?

Since you’ll be spending most of the day outside, sun protection is key. Bring along sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat so you’re comfortable from your first set to your last.

You’ll also want a credit or debit card, since Jazz Fest is cashless. Major cards and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted throughout the festival. While there are cash exchange booths on-site, you won’t be able to buy food, drinks, crafts, or merch without a card or digital payment option.

Good news — you’re allowed to bring:

• Small bags, backpacks, and coolers
• Blankets, tarps, and chairs
• Sealed bottles of water and snacks
• Strollers
• Umbrellas

We highly recommend packing something to sit on, like a blanket or folding chair, so you can relax between sets. Bringing bottled water is also smart, and refill stations around the Fair Grounds make it easy to stay hydrated all day.

What should you leave at home? Pets, wagons, tents, scooters, and oversized bags. Large backpacks, coolers, and chairs aren’t allowed either. For the most up-to-date rules and size requirements, be sure to check the official Jazz Fest guidelines before you head out.

How do I get to Jazz Fest 2026?

The easiest way to get to Jazz Fest 2026 is by the Jazz Fest Express Shuttle. It’s $96 for a 4-day pass and provides continuous transportation between four departure points and the Fair Grounds from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM (or until the last festival-goer is gone). Grab the shuttle from the French Quarter (Steamboat Natchez Dock), Downtown (Sheraton New Orleans Hotel), South Market District (Hyatt Regency), or City Park (Wisner Lot). Find more Jazz Fest Express info, including tickets, here.

Parking is only available for pre-purchase with certain VIP packages or limited first-come first-serve spaces for people with disabilities. Ride shares and taxis are an option, but there are restrictions on how close they can get to the Fair Grounds. There is some free bike parking near the Gentilly Boulevard entrance, and of course, you can walk or use public transit. But we highly recommend the shuttle for an easy way to get back and forth from your accommodations. 

Can I leave and come back?

Once you leave Jazz Fest each day, there is no re-entry, so plan accordingly. The only exception to this is if you have a VIP pass or special pass of some kind. Check your pass to be sure!

What is at Jazz Fest besides music and food?

When you’re not watching a performance, it’s a great opportunity to explore the arts and culture at Jazz Fest. 

This year’s Cultural Exchange Pavilion is dedicated to the spirit of Jamaica. You can expect Reggae and Dancehall performances from names like Ziggy and Stephen Marley, Sean Paul, and Protoje, as well as craft items from artisans affected by Hurricane Melissa, artist demonstrations, and authentic Jamaican cuisine and cocktails.

In the Crafts, Villages, and Marketplaces throughout the Fair Grounds, you’ll find hundreds of regionally and nationally acclaimed artists and artisans.  In the Congo Square African Marketplace, artisans from across the African Diaspora exhibit ancient crafting techniques while sharing their wares, customs, and traditions. Visit Contemporary Crafts in Heritage Square to peruse handcrafted clothing, leather goods, musical instruments, paintings, photographs, sculptures, and jewelry. Further along in the Louisiana Marketplace, browse Louisiana-inspired photographs, Creole and Acadian furniture, jewelry, and other creations representative of Jazz Fest’s home state.

Where to Stay For Jazz Fest in New Orleans 

Jazz Fest is an extremely popular spring festival in New Orleans, so if you plan to attend Jazz Fest 2026, be sure to book your stay in advance. We recommend staying near the Jazz Fest Express Shuttle stops (French Quarter, Downtown, South Market District, and City Park) if you want to be able to easily get to and from the festival.  

Our vacation rentals put you right in the heart of New Orleans, providing easy festival access and making it simple to explore the rest of NOLA while you’re in town. We can’t wait for you to experience Jazz Fest 2026!

Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to the most common questions about attending Jazz Fest 2026 at the Fair Grounds.

What are the official dates for Jazz Fest 2026?

Jazz Fest 2026 is scheduled to take place from Thursday, April 23, through Sunday, May 3, 2026. The event spans two long weekends, with performances typically running Thursday through Sunday each week. Many visitors choose to stay for the “interstitial” days between weekends to experience local “Daze Between” concerts and the NOLA Crawfish Festival.

Where is the festival located and how do I get there?

The festival is held at the Fair Grounds Race Course in the Gentilly neighborhood, located at 1751 Gentilly Boulevard. While rideshares are available, the most efficient transit method is the Jazz Fest Express shuttle, which offers departures from the French Quarter, Downtown, and City Park. Parking near the venue is extremely limited and generally discouraged for non-residents.

What is the best way to purchase tickets for 2026?

Tickets typically go on sale in January 2026, coinciding with the official talent lineup announcement. Options include single-day passes, multi-day weekend bundles, and premium VIP packages like the Big Chief Experience or Grandstand Travel. Buying early is recommended, as early-bird pricing is often available before the full gate price takes effect.

What items are allowed inside the Fair Grounds?

You are permitted to bring small bags, factory-sealed water bottles, blankets, and collapsible chairs to ensure comfort throughout the day. Prohibited items include outside alcohol, large coolers, and professional recording equipment. Because the festival takes place on a dirt and grass track, wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes and packing a light rain poncho is highly advised.

Is Jazz Fest a family-friendly event?

Yes, Jazz Fest is a family-friendly environment with a dedicated Kids’ Tent featuring youth-oriented performances and cultural activities. Reduced-price tickets are usually available for children ages 2–10 at the gate. The festival’s daytime hours (11 AM to 7 PM) and wide-open spaces make it accessible for families traveling with strollers.