The schedule cubes for the 2023 edition of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival have been released, revealing the performances of the more than 580 bands set to play on multiple stages over two weekends at the Fair Grounds. As one of the most anticipated events in New Orleans, Jazz Fest celebrates its diverse musical roots, including jazz, blues, gospel, Cajun/zydeco, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and world music.
Dilemma on First Friday
The festival is known for showcasing some of the biggest names in music as well as up-and-coming artists. This year’s festival features Lizzo, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss, and WuTang Clan with the Soul Rebels as headliners on the first Friday. However, a dilemma has arisen as all three acts are set to perform at the same time. Meanwhile, local acts Big Freedia and Tank & the Bangas lead up to Lizzo’s performance on the main Festival Stage.
Jazz Fest producer Quint Davis schedules complementary local acts ahead of likeminded headliners so visitors can experience both new and familiar favorites while discovering new talent. Legendary blues guitar hero Buddy Guy is also making a comeback to the festival’s main stage after playing at smaller venues in recent years.
Details on Jazz Fest 2023
In addition to unveiling its schedule cubes for this year’s festival, details about Jazz Fest 2023 have also been announced. The festival will take place from April 28 to May 7 at the Fair Grounds in New Orleans. More than 500 bands set to perform are locally based musicians.
Cultural Exchange Pavilion
The Cultural Exchange Pavilion will highlight Puerto Rico under the theme “Pa’lante Puerto Rico!” featuring local and touring musicians from different cultures and nations performing together onstage.
Cashless Festival
Jazz Fest will be a cashless event this year, encouraging attendees to bring debit or credit cards or digital payment options, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. However, the festival will have no-fee cash exchange locations for those without cards or digital payment options.
Kids’ Tent and Food Vendors
The Kids’ Tent is set to be back at the festival this year, including the kids village with food vendors. Meanwhile, the food lineup will feature some festival favorites as well as new dishes worth trying, such as barbecue oysters and guava hand pies from new vendors.
Tickets On Sale Now
General admission tickets are now on sale for Jazz Fest 2023. Day tickets are priced at $85 until April 27 and $95 at the gate. Louisiana residents can purchase Locals Thursday tickets for $50. Weekend passes and VIP packages are also available.
Economic Impact of Jazz Fest
Jazz Fest represents a vital economic event for New Orleans, bringing in millions of visitors and billions of dollars in taxes every year. Officials compare its significance to that of hosting a Super Bowl due to both its economic impact and cultural importance to the city.
In conclusion, Jazz Fest proves to be a great music festival with a diverse range of musical styles on offer while highlighting local talent alongside big-name performers. With its cashless option and new food vendors, this year’s festival promises plenty of excitement as it kicks off in late April.
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