Perhaps no city is more closely associated with a genre of music than New Orleans is with jazz. Live music, and in particular live jazz music, is one of the reasons for New Orleans’ sustained appeal, and even if jazz may not be as popular as it was in its heyday, it lives on in force in New Orleans. New Orleans is often considered the birthplace of jazz music. Jazz is a critical part of the heritage of the city. That idea of jazz and heritage being entwined in New Orleans is brought to life in the incredible, spirited event that is the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
The 2022 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is set from April 29th-May 8th at the Fair Grounds Race Course, and it will mark a welcome return for one of New Orleans’ most beloved events. The 2020 and 2021 iterations of the show were canceled due to the pandemic, but New Orleans officials seem intent on the event going as planned this year. After nearly three years away, the 2022 iteration of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is sure to be one for the ages.
The first iteration of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival began in 1970. However, it was a sparsely attended event, even with appearances from jazz icons Mahalia Jackson and Duke Ellington. After having 350 attendees the first year, within five years, it had an attendance of 80,000. It only continued its growth from there to become an event that draws out hundreds of thousands to witness musical performances and celebrations of the city’s unique heritage. It is a culturally significant event and one of the most highly regarded festivals in the United States.
From its roots as primarily a jazz festival, it has grown to become much more than that. Twelve stages host a wide variety of musical performances from talented and renowned artists. There will, of course, be jazz performances, but you can also expect gospel, Cajun, blues, R&B, rock, funk, folk, and more. It is one of the most diverse festivals that has featured names like Bruce Springsteen, Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, and so much more.
This year, the lineup can rival any, with incredible musicians that encompass a wide variety of different genres. The primary headliners include The Who, Stevie Nicks, the Foo Fighters, Jimmy Buffett, Luke Combs, and Lionel Richie. There will also be performances from Nelly, Ludacris, Willie Nelson, Erykah Badu, the Black Crowes, Norah Jones, and so much more. It is an eclectic collection of talent that is sure to put on a one-of-a-kind show that is unique to New Orleans.
Jazz Fest isn’t all about the music, although that is, of course, a big part of it. If you are looking to buy some incredible art pieces from incredible creators, this event is also for you. There are several different marketplaces at this event that feature the works of local and nationally renowned artists that will showcase the unique talents of some of the rising art superstars from New Orleans and America.
There are three different primary craft marketplaces. The Congo Square African Marketplace honors the culture and spirit that helped bring Jazz to New Orleans with works by African and African American creators. Here, you’ll find artisans exhibiting incredible ancient crafting techniques and live African music. The Contemporary Crafts section has incredible offerings and is located in the famed Heritage Square. Here, you can buy handcrafted clothing, goods, and musical instruments, alongside paintings, photos, jewelry, and more. The Louisiana Marketplace has incredible Creole and Acadian creations and is dedicated to honoring the state’s unique culture and history.
There is so much more to do at this event, with countless displays and activities to entertain and enlighten. There are also delicious spots to settle down and eat, where you can enjoy some of the famous New Orleans Cajun delights.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that brings an incredible atmosphere, with top-notch musical performances, stunning artistic creations, and jaw-dropping displays. It is one of New Orleans’ biggest events, a top festival in America, and one you won’t want to miss. After nearly three years without a New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, this one could be one of the greatest iterations yet.
