New Orleans; the ‘Crescent City’ of Louisiana, best known for its amazing cuisine, large celebrations, and rich history. Also known as Nola for short, New Orleans is one of the top tourist destinations in America, boasting famous attractions and events around every corner. One of the most well known and culturally relevant events that takes place is The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. The festival takes place every year between the months of April and May, as crowds scramble to watch popular artists take center stage. The goal of the featured musicians at the festival is to share their craft, as well as pay homage to the greats who came before them.
The first jazz fest took place April 22nd through 26th of 1970 in Congo Square. The event was held and started by George Wein, an American promoter. The event hosted headliners such as Duke Ellington, Mahalia Jackson, and Fats Domino; prominent Jazz and Blues artists of the time. Wein wanted the local music and culture to be brought together for the enjoyment of the public; he wanted people to appreciate the stunning food, art, and traditions. Originally, a mere 250 people attended, but since then the number of festival goers has soared.
Since the formation of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, there has been a record high of 650,000 attendees, almost 1,900 times as many people as the original festival. Congo Square, the first home of the Festival, was a famous meeting place for many African Americans in New Orleans. Since the early 19th century, African Americans have congregated in Congo Square, originally going there on their free days to sell their goods. Congo Square was also a breeding ground for culture and legend. Many consider it to be the birthplace of jazz and ritual spot of high voodoo priestesses and priests. If you're seeking a true cultural immersion experience with a lot of great music and even better vibes; the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage festival is for you.
The first jazz fest took place April 22nd through 26th of 1970 in Congo Square. The event was held and started by George Wein, an American promoter. The event hosted headliners such as Duke Ellington, Mahalia Jackson, and Fats Domino; prominent Jazz and Blues artists of the time. Wein wanted the local music and culture to be brought together for the enjoyment of the public; he wanted people to appreciate the stunning food, art, and traditions. Originally, a mere 250 people attended, but since then the number of festival goers has soared.
Since the formation of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, there has been a record high of 650,000 attendees, almost 1,900 times as many people as the original festival. Congo Square, the first home of the Festival, was a famous meeting place for many African Americans in New Orleans. Since the early 19th century, African Americans have congregated in Congo Square, originally going there on their free days to sell their goods. Congo Square was also a breeding ground for culture and legend. Many consider it to be the birthplace of jazz and ritual spot of high voodoo priestesses and priests. If you're seeking a true cultural immersion experience with a lot of great music and even better vibes; the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage festival is for you.