Louisiana is known for many things: its Cajun and Creole cuisine, Mardi Gras celebrations, bayous, and of course, music. From jazz to blues to zydeco, Louisiana has a musical style all its own, and music festivals abound in the state. Here are some of the best music festivals in Louisiana.
Contents
- 1. New Orleans Jazz Festival
- 2. French Quarter Fest
- 3. Hogs for the Cause
- 4. Essence Music Festival
- 5. Baton Rouge Blues Festival
- 6. Ponderosa Stomp Festival
- 7. Voodoo Music + Arts Experience
- 8. Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival
- 9. Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival
- 10. Festivals Acadiens et Créoles
- Final Thoughts
1. New Orleans Jazz Festival
Fair Grounds Race Course, New Orleans
When: April-May (10 days)
The New Orleans Jazz Festival is a widely-known event that occurs over two weekends and consequently has an immense lineup. Since 1970, Jazz Fest has hosted more than 22,000 performers on 12 stages, making it one of the grandest music festivals of the last century.
Jazz fans come from all over the world to enjoy some of the best musicians in the business, but don’t be fooled—the festival has it all for music lovers. Besides jazz, there is plenty of blues, soul, and a lot more.
2. French Quarter Fest
New Orleans
When: April (four days)
With over 20 different stages, the French Quarter comes alive with music celebrating local and international talent from every genre imaginable. They kick off the festival with a parade, celebrating the city’s long-standing heritage.
The event includes all types of music ranging from jazz to blues, with plenty of local flavor stopping by.
3. Hogs for the Cause
Uno Lakefront, New Orleans
When: April (two days)
Start your festival season off right by coming to our music-filled barbecue event! You’ll get great food while also supporting a good cause, as proceeds go towards children’s hospitals.
Hogs for the Cause features an impressive lineup of popular acts. Make sure to check out their website as they release updates on the featured artists.
4. Essence Music Festival
Mercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans
When: June (five days)
Essence Music Festival began in 1995 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Essence magazine. The concerts will be happening in Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, and attendees have the option of buying tickets for the whole event or just enjoying the free activities taking place during daytime hours.
There’s more to Louisiana than just jazz and blues. The Essence Music Festival brings in the biggest names across the genres.
5. Baton Rouge Blues Festival
Repentance Park, Baton Rouge
When: April (two days)
One of America’s longest-running free blues festivals, the Baton Rouge Blues Festival is made possible by generous partners, local support, and the hard work of the Baton Rouge Blues Foundation’s board of directors and volunteer festival committee.
6. Ponderosa Stomp Festival
New Orleans
When: Septmber (three days)
The Ponderosa Stomp is a music festival in America that celebrates great artists in styles such as jazz, rock-n-roll, blues, swamp pop, country and more. The festival has grown from a small two-day event to now include a film festival, dances, music conference, and DJ parties.
7. Voodoo Music + Arts Experience
City Park, New Orleans
When: October (three days)
The Voodoo Music + Arts Experience happens annually in New Orleans, and this Halloween is no different! Come join the festivities and honor the music.
The lineup for this three-day festival is incredible, and it’s all happening downtown in New Orleans. You’ll never forget the amazing food, incredible art, and costumed guests at this event.
8. Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival
Cassidy Park, Bogalusa
When: September (two days)
The Bogalusa Music Festival is a must-attend event for any music lover. Held annually in September, the festival celebrates Bogalusa’s rich musical history with an amazing lineup of live performances.
In between sets, enjoy the food from Vendor Alley and browse the crafts booths for unique gifts and souvenirs.
9. Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival
Louis Armstrong Park, New Orleans
When: June (two days)
Get a taste of Louisiana’s culture by enjoying some traditional Cajun and Creole music at one of Lafayette’s festivals. You’ll also find good food and crafts there too! The best part? It’s free! They also accept donations to support their future events.
10. Festivals Acadiens et Créoles
Lafayette
When: October
The Cajun capital of Lafayette hosts a festival each October that celebrates the region’s culture. Cajun and zydeco musicians take the stage for the Festival de Musique, The Bayou Food Festival celebrates Cajun and Creole cuisine like boudin, and jambalaya, while the Louisiana Craft Fair houses handmade goods such as jewelry and furniture.
Final Thoughts
Louisiana is home to a variety of music festivals that celebrate its diverse culture. From the well-known Essence Music Festival to the lesser-known Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival, there’s something for everyone in Louisiana.
So if you’re looking for great music and a good time, make sure you check out one of these festivals!
New Orleans Jazz Festival Featured Image by: djnaquin67, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
