New Orleans
Jazz and Heritage Festival

A Deep Dive into the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

Founded in 1970 by producer George Wein, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival began as a modest gathering in Congo Square and has since blossomed into one of the premier music festivals on earth. Today, Jazz Fest fills the expansive infield of the Fair Grounds Race Course at 1751 Gentilly Boulevard, drawing an estimated 500,000 attendees across its two-weekend run each spring. The 2027 edition will carry forward more than five decades of tradition celebrating the music, food, and crafts of New Orleans and the Gulf South.

What sets Jazz Fest apart from other large-scale festivals is the depth and diversity of its programming. More than a dozen stages host simultaneous performances throughout the day, ranging from the massive Acura Stage headliner sets to intimate gospel tent performances and traditional jazz showcases at the Economy Hall Tent. Past headliners have spanned genres and generations, and Jazz Fest's ability to pair global superstars with Louisiana legends is central to its identity. The Jazz & Heritage Foundation curates the lineup to reflect the full spectrum of New Orleans musical heritage alongside contemporary acts.

The festival's food program is legendary in its own right. Over 70 local vendors prepare dishes you will not find at any other festival — crawfish bread, cochon de lait po-boys, soft-shell crab, mango freeze, and more. Many attendees plan their entire day around the food tents, and the culinary experience is considered as essential as the music. Beyond food and music, the Congo Square area features crafts, visual arts, and cultural demonstrations that showcase the living traditions of Louisiana.

For visitors traveling to New Orleans, Jazz Fest is a gateway to the city's broader cultural scene. The French Quarter, Frenchmen Street, Treme, and the Garden District are all within easy reach of the Fair Grounds, and the week between the two festival weekends is packed with club shows, second-line parades, and special events. The combination of world-class music, unmatched food, and the spirit of New Orleans makes Jazz Fest a bucket-list experience for fans of every genre.

Do not wait for the lineup announcement to make your plans. BigStub offers verified resale passes and day tickets for Jazz Fest 2027, with transparent pricing and a full buyer guarantee. With the highest Trustpilot rating in the industry and over two decades of service, BigStub is a trusted partner for securing your spot at the Fair Grounds.

How to Buy New Orleans Jazz Fest 2027 Tickets

Where can I buy Jazz Fest 2027 passes?

Passes and single-day tickets are available through the official Jazz Fest website when they go on sale, typically in early spring. Authorized ticket outlets in the New Orleans area may also carry inventory. Verified resale tickets are available on BigStub, a trusted marketplace with no hidden fees and a buyer guarantee.

When is Jazz Fest 2027?

Jazz Fest traditionally takes place over two weekends in late April and early May at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. The 2027 dates have not yet been officially announced — check the official Jazz Fest website for updates as they become available.

What types of tickets are available?

Jazz Fest typically offers single-day tickets, multi-day passes, and VIP experiences. VIP packages may include premium viewing areas, air-conditioned lounges, and complimentary food and beverages. Early-bird pricing is usually available before the lineup announcement.

How do I get to the Fair Grounds?

The Fair Grounds Race Course is located at 1751 Gentilly Boulevard in New Orleans. The festival offers shuttle service from designated pickup points around the city. Street parking is extremely limited on festival days, so shuttles, rideshares, and public transit are strongly recommended. The Canal Street streetcar line connects downtown to the Mid-City area near the grounds.

Are resale Jazz Fest tickets safe to purchase?

Yes — when you buy through a verified marketplace like BigStub, every ticket is authenticated before delivery. BigStub has the highest Trustpilot rating in the resale industry and provides dedicated customer support for every order.

New Orleans Jazz Fest 2027 — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival?

Jazz Fest is an annual music and cultural festival held over two weekends at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. Founded in 1970, it celebrates jazz, blues, R&B, gospel, Cajun, zydeco, and the broader cultural heritage of New Orleans and Louisiana.

When will the Jazz Fest 2027 lineup be announced?

The lineup is typically announced in January or February of the festival year. Follow the official Jazz Fest website and social media channels for the latest news.

How many stages does Jazz Fest have?

Jazz Fest features more than a dozen stages, including the large Acura Stage, the Gentilly Stage, the Congo Square Stage, the Gospel Tent, the Economy Hall Tent, the Jazz Tent, and several others. Each stage has its own character and genre focus.

What food is available at Jazz Fest?

Over 70 local vendors serve Louisiana specialties that are unique to the festival. Favorites include crawfish bread, cochon de lait po-boys, soft-shell crab, crawfish Monica, mango freeze, and Cajun classics. The food alone is a major draw for tens of thousands of attendees.

What is the weather like during Jazz Fest?

Late April and early May in New Orleans are warm and humid, with daytime temperatures often in the 80s Fahrenheit. Rain is common, and the Fair Grounds can get muddy. Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a lightweight rain layer.

Can I bring chairs or blankets?

Small folding chairs and blankets are generally permitted on the festival grounds. Large chairs, umbrellas, and canopies are typically prohibited. Check the official Jazz Fest FAQ for the most current list of allowed and prohibited items.

Is Jazz Fest family-friendly?

Yes. Jazz Fest welcomes attendees of all ages. The festival offers a dedicated kids' area with activities and performances. Children under a certain age are often admitted free with a ticketed adult — check the official website for current policies.

How do I get around during Jazz Fest?

Shuttles run from designated pickup points around the city. Rideshare services have designated drop-off zones near the Fair Grounds. Street parking is very limited, and many nearby streets have restrictions on festival days. Public transit via the Canal Street streetcar is another option.

What else can I do in New Orleans during Jazz Fest?

The city comes alive during Jazz Fest season. Club shows on Frenchmen Street, second-line parades, pop-up events, and late-night performances extend the festival experience well beyond the Fair Grounds. The French Quarter, Garden District, and Treme neighborhoods are all worth exploring.

Do both weekends have the same lineup?

No. Unlike some two-weekend festivals, Jazz Fest features a completely different lineup each weekend. Many fans attend both weekends to catch different artists and experiences.

Can I resell my Jazz Fest tickets?

Yes. If your plans change, verified resale platforms allow you to list your tickets for other fans. Check the terms of your original purchase for any transfer requirements.

Why buy Jazz Fest 2027 tickets on BigStub?

BigStub is a verified resale marketplace with the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket industry. Every order is backed by a buyer guarantee, there are no hidden fees, and dedicated customer service is ready to assist. Fans have trusted BigStub for over 20 years to secure tickets to the biggest festivals and events.