Satchmo Summerfest

The Satchmo SummerFest, a celebration of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong’s life and music, is an annual New Orleans event that offers a weekend full of music, food,
and fun. Here is your comprehensive guide to making the most of this celebration.

There is no fee to attend this festival, and you can help keep it that way by buying souvenirs, drinks, and merchandise at the festival! The festival typically takes place during the first weekend of August, coinciding with Louis Armstrong’s birthday on August 4th. This year’s dates are August 3rd and 4th, 2024.

The festival is held at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, located at 400 Esplanade Avenue, right at the edge of the French Quarter. The heart of Satchmo SummerFest is its fantastic lineup of musical performances. Here is what you can expect:

• Music Outdoors: Featuring renowned jazz and brass bands, attendees can enjoy continuous live music throughout the festival. Make sure to attend performances by New Orleans’ top jazz musicians and special tribute acts to Louis Armstrong.
• Indoor Stage: For a more intimate setting, the indoor stage offers discussions and seminars about Armstrong’s life and legacy.

Who Should Attend Satchmo SummerFest?

• Music Lovers: This festival has a great lineup of artists to enjoy over the weekend, and if you happen to be a music history buff, you will enjoy stories and discussions from the Satchmo Legacy Stage.
• Festival Lovers: If you enjoy the energy and excitement of festivals, the Satchmo SummerFest is where you need to be. With live music, and New Orleans’ own blend of local food and drink vendors, this festival has the makings of a weekend well spent and remembered.
  Locals and Visitors: Jazz music lovers from near and far plan for and attend this annual event. They reflect on the legacy of Louis Armstrong and enjoy live jazz music, so it should come as no surprise that New Orleans locals and returning or first-time visitors will be your companions on festival days.

Food and Drink

This New Orleans festival is not only a place to enjoy music; it is also a place to find and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Satchmo SummerFest offers a variety of food and beverage options:

• Food: Enjoy New Orleans dishes like Cajun pies, seafood, sno balls, and remoulade from local food vendors.
• Drinks: Refresh yourself with a non-alcoholic beverage, a cold beer, champagne, or a classic New Orleans cocktail while you enjoy the music and food throughout the day.

Tips for Attending

To make the most of your Satchmo SummerFest experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Stay Hydrated: New Orleans can be hot and humid in August, so be sure to make note of shady areas to enjoy a break and drink plenty of water.
• Arrive Early: Popular performances and events fill up quickly, so we recommend you arrive early to check out the area and find your preferred spot.
• Wear Comfortable Clothing: Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must for enjoying the festival to the fullest.
• Bring Cash: Many of today’s vendors accept credit cards, but you may want to consider having some cash on hand for food, drinks, tips, and souvenirs.

Getting There

• Public Transportation: New Orleans buses and streetcars can get you close to the festival grounds. With fares of $1.25 per adult these are affordable options to consider.
• Parking: If you are driving, be prepared for limited parking options. Consider using a ride-sharing service or parking in a nearby garage.

More to Enjoy

In addition to the music and food, Satchmo SummerFest features a variety of events and activities:

• Expert Discussions: Learn more about Louis Armstrong through expert-led discussions, film screenings, and presentations on his impact on music and culture.
• Parades: Join in the fun of traditional second-line parades, complete with brass bands and colorful costumes, as they wind through the festival grounds.
• Exhibits: Explore the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s special exhibits dedicated to Louis Armstrong, displaying rare memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from his life and career.

Attending the Satchmo SummerFest to celebrate Louis Armstrong’s enduring legacy with world-class jazz, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere is a terrific way to spend an August day. Be sure to save and enjoy the Louisiana Ladies’ August Playlist on Spotify for featured jazz music artists as you prepare to enjoy this fantastic annual event. Visit the official Satchmo SummerFest website to get the latest festival updates.