Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of blues and the savory tastes of barbecue at the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival. This free, three-day event in Lafayette Square Park showcases acclaimed musicians from the region, alongside a diverse array of BBQ vendors and a vibrant arts market. Discover new artists, savor delicious food, and soak in the rich musical heritage of New Orleans.
Other Halloween Near New Orleans
What to Expect
Three days of free blues, BBQ, and art in Lafayette Square.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE – Get tickets
- 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.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Music lovers, foodies, families
Vibe
Soulful, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
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
Location
Event Details
Duration
3 days
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Central Business District
Timed Entry
No
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
- Carolyn Wonderland
- Devon Allman’s Blues Summit
- The Devon Allman Project
- Larry McCray
- Jimmy Hall
- Tyron Benoit Band
- Joy Clark
- Hubby Jenkins
- Vasti Jackson
- Mia Borders
- The Top Notes
- Ernie Vincent
- Cindy Cashdollar
- Brian Mitchell
- Woodstock All-Stars
- Sonny Landreth
- Bobby Rush
Organizer
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
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.
Quick Actions
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.
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.
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.