Explore the vibrant spring festival scene in New Orleans, with a wide range of events showcasing live music, delicious food, and a celebration of arts and culture. From the Jazz Fest to the French Quarter Festival, there's something for everyone.
Spring Festivals in New Orleans: A Guide to Music, Food, and Culture
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New Orleans in the springtime is a bustling city, with a wide range of festivals to suit every type of traveler. From renowned events like Jazz Fest to local favorites like Bayou Boogaloo, there is an abundance of choices. With incredible music lineups, delectable food vendors, and a celebration of arts and culture, these festivals offer something for everyone. To help you plan your next NOLA getaway, here are some spring highlights to consider.
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First up is the Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival, taking place from March 6th to 10th. This event is a tribute to the beloved musician, writer, and composer from New Orleans. It features live music performances, panel discussions, workshops, special events, and even second lines.
If you're interested in entrepreneurship, don't miss New Orleans Entrepreneur Week from March 11th to 16th. Dubbed the 'Mardi Gras of entrepreneurship,' this six-day festival aims to connect, educate, and inspire the entrepreneurial community across the Gulf South. It brings together startup founders, business leaders, aspiring entrepreneurs, industry experts, investors, and creatives for a celebration of innovation and culture.
Book lovers will delight in the New Orleans Book Festival, happening from March 14th to 16th at Tulane University. This multi-day event features readings, panel discussions, symposia, keynote speeches, and a family day with book readings and distributions. Best of all, admission is free.
Food Festivals and Literary Celebrations
For food enthusiasts, the NOLA Food Fight on March 14th is a gastronomic extravaganza. Organized by Yeah You Right Events, this all-you-can-eat food fest supports a local non-profit for at-risk teens. General admission tickets are $85.
Literary enthusiasts can indulge in the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival from March 20th to 24th. This unique spring festival is famous for its 'Stella' shouting contest, where participants compete to recreate the iconic scene from 'A Streetcar Named Desire.' The festival also features masterclasses for aspiring writers, panels, live theater, literary celebrations, and educational walking tours in the historically literary city. During the same weekend, the Saints + Sinners Literary Festival brings together LGBTQ+ publishers, writers, and readers from across the United States and beyond.
Horror and Music Extravaganza
If you're a fan of horror, the Overlook Film Festival from April 4th to 7th is a must-visit. Celebrating all things horror in America's most haunted city, this festival showcases feature-length and short films from experienced filmmakers and emerging artists. Interactive experiences, podcast recordings, and panels are also part of the festival.
The French Quarter Festival, happening from April 11th to 14th, is an annual celebration of the vibrant French Quarter neighborhood. With dozens of stages featuring local musicians and over 60 food and drink vendors, this four-day event offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful riverfront scenery and explore the charming streets of the French Quarter.
Golf Tournament and Jazz Fest
Golf enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the Zurich Classic from April 22nd to 28th. This annual golf tournament brings the PGA's star golfers to the bayou. Enjoy a week of food, drinks, and world-class golfing at TPC Louisiana in nearby Avondale, all while supporting the tournament's host organization, the Fore!Kids Foundation.
Last but certainly not least, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is a highlight of the spring festival season. Taking place from April 25th to 28th and May 2nd to 5th, this festival transforms the Fairgrounds into a music lover's paradise. With incredible food, drink, craft vendors, and a variety of stages featuring world-famous headliners and local musicians, Jazz Fest offers something for everyone. This year's headliners include The Rolling Stones. Whether you choose to relax in the Gospel Tent or explore the larger stages, this festival is not to be missed.
Conclusion
As you plan your trip to New Orleans, consider attending one or more of these fantastic spring festivals. With their unique offerings and vibrant atmosphere, they are sure to make your visit to the Big Easy even more memorable.