Doug Kershaw
Annual event draws half a million attendees
Even though the official name is the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, commonly called just JazzFest, you can expect to hear every genre of music played live during this festival’s multi-week run in May. Big-name legends like Ray Charles, Tina Turner and James Brown have performed, but don’t miss the chance to see local musicians lighting up the stages.
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Cameron Gott
Premier venue for Cajun and Roots music
Live music lovers from all over travel to the Blue Moon Saloon, the world-famous honky tonk in Lafayette. Come to enjoy acoustic and intimate jam sessions during the week or loud and rowdy tunes on the weekend. Make reservations in advance to stay overnight at the adjoining guesthouse. Head to downtown Lafayette for more live concert options.
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Paul Kieu
Can’t-miss music venue in New Orlean’s French Quarter
The historic Preservation Hall has been showcasing the best live jazz acts since 1961. Visit the relaxed setting for multiple performances a day – five on Saturdays and Sundays – on more than 350 days each year. The hall features always-evolving ensembles from a current collective of over 100 local master practitioners.
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Three-day festival held in late May every year
Head to Shreveport for one of Louisiana’s largest Cajun Festival, Mudbug Madness, named for crawfish, the tasty delicacy that locals call “mudbugs.” Listen as 30 bands take to two stages performing country, pop, blues and the very best of zydeco. The festival takes over downtown and includes arts and craft vendors, a dedicated kids’ zone, food trucks and a crawfish eating contest.
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Venture to a Cajun music capital
Mamou is a small town with a large reputation. Some even call it the “Cajun Music Capital of the World.” Its name appears in multiple Cajun song titles, and it’s the hometown of legends like Jimmy C. Newman and Steve Riley. Get ready to dance at Fred’s Lounge, an iconic spot that’s only open on Saturday mornings – broadcasting live throughout the nation for all to enjoy.
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Local music hot spot in New Orleans
Head to Frenchmen Street, a popular area in the Marigny and Bywater neighborhood, known for a collection of live music venues. A New Orleans favorite is d.b.a., where craft beers and cocktails mix perfectly with an eclectic lineup. Jazz and funk are common here, but bands from all genres grace the small stage.
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One of the largest Zydeco celebrations in the world
Opelousas calls itself the “Zydeco Music Capital of the World” and celebrates its title every year with the Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Music Festival. The day-long event held in late August or early September takes over the entire town, and festival goers take to dancing in the streets to the groovy tunes. When you need a break from dancing, grab an authentic plate lunch or Creole cuisine from festival vendors.
