Visiting New Orleans Jazz Fest: the First Time: Tips, Lineup, and more

Key Takeaways

• New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival runs over two weekends featuring 14 stages with jazz, blues, R&B, and gospel.
• The 2024 festival spans April 25-29 and May 2-5 with events between 11 am and 7 pm daily.
• Festival operates cashless accepting credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, and mobile payment services only.

Every year, hundreds of different jazz festivals take place all over the globe. Yet, there is only one event that celebrates the beautiful genre in the city that birthed it.

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is one of the city’s top events that allows locals and visitors to dive into the amazing food and music scene in a chill, laidback atmosphere. But jazz and great music are only part of the festivities. Over the years, the festival has become less about showcasing jazz and more about celebrating the incredible city that gave us the wonderful genre.

Wish to learn more? In the article below, we explain everything you need to know about the eight-day party.

The Story Behind the Jazz Fest

Jazz Fest has come a long way since its modest start in 1970. Now a massive event, it has a little bit of everything for music enthusiasts. Spread out over two weekends, the festival features 14 stages where you can immerse yourself in a variety of genres like jazz, blues, Cajun, zydeco, gospel, brass bands, R&B, hip-hop, and more. 

With headliners from both the local and national music scene and the Cultural Exchange Pavilion showcasing the music and cuisine from different countries or regions, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Impromptu street performances, block parties, porch concerts – the incredible party can be witnessed all around the city.

In 2024, the festival will kick off on April 25 and go through April 29 before picking back up again on May 2 through May 5. Most events occur between 11 am and 7 pm, however, those who wish to keep the party going will easily find several other after-hours festivities.

What Is the Lineup for 2024?

Did you know that Jazz Fest attracts nearly half a million music enthusiasts every year? There are not many events in the country that showcase talents from almost every style of music, so it doesn’t come as a surprise the festival is a huge hit among music lovers. 

In 2024, like any other year, the lineup is full of amazing musicians and bands recognized nationally and internationally. During your vacation in New Orleans, you can expect to see The Rolling Stones, Foo Fighters, Neil Young Crazy Horse, The Killers, HOZIER, Chris Stapleton, Queen Latifah, and many other stars. To see the full lineup, scroll down to the end of this article. 

Tips for First-time Visitors to Jazz Fest

Consider Riding a Bike

Biking through the city isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Maybe you’re new to cycling in urban areas, or the idea feels a bit daunting. That’s okay! But, for those who are up for it, cycling can incredibly enhance your Jazz Fest experience. 

It’s no secret that finding parking during the festival can be quite challenging, especially around the fairgrounds. So, if you’re looking for a smoother, more enjoyable festival experience, hopping on a bike might just be the perfect solution! 

While there are many bike rental shops in the city, nothing is easier than utilizing Blue Bikes NOLA. With nearly 100 stations around the city (and five within a five-minute walk to the fairgrounds) and an app to navigate rentals, Blue Bike NOLA will make getting to and from Jazz Fest a breeze. Plus, it will likely save you some money on parking – better spent on food at Jazz Fest anyway! 

Book a Vacation Rental in New Orleans

Jazz Fest is all about celebrating music, delicious food, and the lovely culture of the city and Louisiana. To make the most of your experience, it’s important to find a comfortable short-term rental near all the action. 

At Book NOLA, we believe in showing you the real New Orleans – beyond the usual tourist trails. After all – there’s so much to explore and fall in love with here! If you’re looking for the best places to stay in New Orleans during Jazz Fest, our vacation rentals will be an excellent pick! Have a look at our full list of short-term rentals in New Orleans here.

Protect Yourself From the Heat

Jazz Fest is known for its sunny vibes, but it can also bring the heat! Here are some ways to stay cool:

• Take a break and enjoy the air conditioning inside the Grandstands
• Refresh yourself at the mist tents in the food vendor area
• Remember to hydrate! What’s great is that empty reusable water bottles are allowed within the festival area, plus there are several refill stations available.

Try All the Food!

If something catches your eye or tempts your taste buds, go ahead and give it a try! Remember, for many, this event is as much a celebration of delicious bayou cuisine as a music festival. With more than 50 specialties available across the fairgrounds, there are plenty of tasty treats to enjoy! Just remember, Jazz Fest is now cashless and only accepts credit/debit/prepaid cards, as well as Apple, Google, and Samsung Pay.

Ending Notes

Whether you’re visiting the city for the very first time or already have had plenty of New Orleans vacations, you’ll want to make the most of your experience. This starts with choosing the perfect accommodation. If you’re still wondering where to stay in New Orleans, we’ve got you covered! Check out our wonderful vacation rentals here and enjoy your NOLA vacation to the fullest!

Credit to New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Frequently Asked Questions

Get the most out of your first Jazz Fest experience with these quick answers to common festival logistics and rules.

What are the best transportation options for getting to Jazz Fest?

Biking is one of the most efficient ways to reach the Fair Grounds because vehicle parking is extremely limited in the surrounding neighborhoods. For those without a personal bike, Blue Bikes NOLA offers nearly 100 stations city-wide, including five locations within a five-minute walk of the festival gates. This method avoids traffic congestion and saves money that is better spent on festival food.

Can I use cash to buy food and drinks at the festival?

No, New Orleans Jazz Fest is now a cashless event and does not accept physical currency at food or craft booths. You must use credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. If you only have cash, look for “cash-to-card” kiosks on-site to transfer your funds onto a prepaid card.

How can I stay cool and avoid heat exhaustion during the event?

The best way to escape the Louisiana heat is by heading inside the Grandstands, which offer air-conditioned areas and seated relief. Additionally, visitors should utilize the mist tents located near the food vendors and bring an empty reusable water bottle. There are several filtered water refill stations throughout the Fair Grounds to help you stay hydrated for free.

What are the typical daily hours for Jazz Fest performances?

Most festival performances and activities take place between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm across both weekends. While the official Fair Grounds events end in the early evening, the celebration continues throughout the city with after-hours festivities, porch concerts, and club shows in nearby neighborhoods like Mid-City and the French Quarter.

What items am I allowed to bring inside the Fair Grounds?

You are permitted to bring empty reusable water bottles to use at the festival’s hydration stations. While the festival encourages trying the 50+ local food specialties available on-site, focus on sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Check the official 2024 guidelines for specific restrictions on bag sizes or chair types to ensure a smooth entry through security.

Have more questions?

Check out our FAQ page for more details.