Illustration of a fall festival scene (Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival)

Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

The free, three-day Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival in Lafayette Square Park features regional musicians, BBQ vendors, and an arts market. Attendees can view art, eat barbecue, and listen to blues music.

All ages FREE Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Neighborhood

Central Business District

Featured Performers

  • Sierra Green & the Giants
  • Tab Benoit
  • Wolfe Johns
  • Mem Shannon & the Membership
  • Ed Wills & Blues 4 $ale
  • Leo Nocentelli of the Meters
  • Eric Johanson
  • Jontavious Willis
  • +17 more

Food & Drink

A wide variety of regional BBQ styles, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those who eat gluten-free. Complimentary bar with beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks in VIP areas.

Parking

There is parking in the Poydras Center (650 Poydras Street) for a flat fee, and there are many other street-level parking lots in the area.

Accessibility

Reserved areas at both stages for guests using wheelchairs, a special deck with views of both stages for wheelchair users, ADA drop-off area on Camp Street, and ADA-compliant toilets available with a combination from the Foundation Information booth or greeters.

Location

Lafayette Square Park · 540 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (4/5)

Best For

Music lovers, foodies, families

Vibe

Soulful, festive, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially if you want to be within the 'no chairs' perimeter near the stages, as these areas fill up quickly.
  • Consider purchasing a VIP Experience ticket for enhanced comfort, including access to private viewing areas, seating, and complimentary drinks and snacks.
  • Utilize public transportation like the St. Charles Avenue streetcar or the Magazine Street bus to easily access Lafayette Square and avoid parking hassles.
  • Bring cash for vendors and merchandise, as while some may accept cards, cash transactions are often faster and more reliable.
  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date music schedule and food vendor information closer to the event dates to plan your visit.

Special Events & Promotions

  • VIP Experience available for purchase
  • Annual customized guitar auction benefiting the Foundation's programs
  • Live broadcast by WWOZ New Orleans 90.7 FM

Links & Contact

Run by New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission price for the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival?

Admission to the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival is completely free and open to the public.

What kind of food can I expect at the festival?

The festival features a wide array of barbecue from various regional styles, with a focus on Louisiana flavors. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options will also be available.

Can I bring my pet to the festival?

For the safety and comfort of all attendees, pets are not allowed at the festival, with the exception of service animals.

Is there parking available near Lafayette Square?

Yes, there is parking available in the Poydras Center garage and numerous other street-level parking lots in the vicinity of Lafayette Square.

Can I record the performances?

No, audio or video recording of any performances at the festival is strictly prohibited.

Browse Halloween in New Orleans

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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