Experience the heart of New Orleans music heritage at the 19th annual Satchmo Music Festival from August 2nd-4th. This festival celebrates the life, love, and music of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong who influenced the jazz genre in the 1920s with his inventive trumpet solos and scat singing. The toe-tappin, funky-groovy down to the bone goosebumps, jazz wouldn’t be the same without the soul and love Louis gave to the genre.
This multi-day festival has so much going on; from seminars and speakers, special events, some of the best culinary soul-food creations you’ll ever taste, and multiple stages with live music, you’ll need a personal tour-guide to chauffeur you around the festival… Or an ultimate guide packed with everything you need to know. So without adieu, here's our guide to the Satchmo Summerfest:
Louie “Satchmo” Armstrong
Most would know Louie “Satchmo” Armstrong for his gravelly voice in the original song “What A Beautiful World”. This classic put Louie on the map and has inspired generations since. Louie was also a fabulous trumpet and cornet player who helped mold the improvisational tone of the jazz genre. This festival is held yearly on August 4th, Louie’s birthday, and is one of the most joyous events in New Orleans as it is a big birthday party to celebrate this monumental jazz figure.
Location
Held at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Mint, this festival is right downtown in the French Quarter District. You can easily walk to this festival from any downtown location, and come and go as you please throughout the day.
Food
For a music festival, they sure do know how to feed a crowd! Louisiana-based brewery Abita will be serving up ice-cold brews all festival long at their 3 beer gardens, the largest held at the Old U.S. Mint. Grab a cold one and browse the large selection of food vendors on the grounds. As expected, there will be more than enough Cajun and soul food to satisfy your cravings in addition to treats like Carribean-inspired cuisine, crepes, and ice cream.
Family Fun Activities
After loading up on some ice cream, head on over to Pops’ Playhouse located on the second floor of the Jazz Museum. Activities based on an instructional yet entertaining core are sure to pump the kids up about jazz by teaching them how to talk like Louis (gravelly voice and all), scat, and make instruments. This is one great stop to get your kids excited about jazz so when you go to the concerts and attend the rest of the festival, they connect with the music, making it a great time for all. The Jazz Museum is also air-conditioned and this is a great stop if you or your kids are overheating in the August heat.
Accommodations
New Orleans has a deep history with its Spanish and French roots. These roots don’t just influence the food and the music, but the alluring architecture of this city. You’ll see beautiful hundred-year-old Victorian mansions, colorful Creole cottages, and charming B&Bs that will make you never want to leave! The Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association includes many B&Bs in New Orleans. And you can see all member B&Bs on our map, with several within walking distance of the Satchmo Festival. Find one that speaks to you.
Ready to experience the heart of Jazz at the Satchmo Summerfest? Book a stay at one of the Louisiana Bed & Breakfast Association’s many charming and unique properties located all over New Orleans!