Jazz festival 2026

Question

Hi, im looking at visiting New Orleans next year and wanted some advice. If there while the Jazz festival is on at start of May, is there more music activity in the bars during this time? I was thinking of notngoing to the festival but rather looking for music entertainment in the city bars. Thanks

Answer

Hi there!

It’s fantastic that you’re considering visiting New Orleans during the Jazz Festival in May! While the festival itself is a major event, you can definitely enjoy a vibrant live music scene in the city’s bars and clubs, whether you attend the festival or not. In fact, the entire city comes alive with music during this time, so there will be plenty of opportunities to experience great live jazz and other genres in the bars and venues across New Orleans.

Music in New Orleans Bars during Jazz Festival:

During the Jazz Festival, the music scene in New Orleans is incredibly dynamic, and many of the city’s bars, clubs, and venues will host live performances from local musicians. While the Jazz Fest itself is the main draw, it’s worth noting that New Orleans has a year-round music culture, and the festival's influence really spills over into the bars. Many local venues will have jazz, blues, soul, and other music genres happening in the evenings. Some popular spots include:

Frenchmen Street: This is the heart of New Orleans' live music scene, and it’s always buzzing with activity. Even during the Jazz Festival, Frenchmen Street’s bars and clubs will feature incredible live performances, many of them free. You can hop between spots like The Spotted Cat Music Club, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, and Maison for a variety of music styles.
Preservation Hall: A legendary venue in the French Quarter known for its authentic, old-school New Orleans jazz. It’s one of the most iconic places in the city to catch live jazz, and it often offers performances during the Jazz Festival, though be sure to check availability as it fills up quickly.
The Maple Leaf Bar: Located in the Uptown area, this spot is known for its laid-back vibe and excellent live music. Even if you miss the festival, The Maple Leaf will likely have fantastic music happening throughout your visit.
The Columns Hotel: This historic hotel has a beautiful porch and often features jazz and blues performances in its lounge area. It’s a more relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks and music at the same time.
Lucky Pierre’s: A fun, no-frills bar in the French Quarter, known for showcasing talented local musicians. You’re likely to hear some great jazz and maybe even more experimental performances, depending on the night.

Additional Music Activities in the City:

In addition to the bars, there are a few other places around the city where you can enjoy music without attending the festival itself:

Jazz in the Park: If you’re looking for outdoor music, you might want to check out Jazz in the Park, a free concert series that takes place in Armstrong Park. It usually runs through the spring and offers a mix of jazz and other genres in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
St. Louis Cathedral Concerts: The St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square occasionally offers live music performances, including jazz. The acoustics are fantastic, and the setting is quintessentially New Orleans.
New Orleans Jazz Market: Another great option for music lovers is the New Orleans Jazz Market, which hosts live performances and cultural events throughout the year. It’s an excellent spot to experience local music and meet fellow music enthusiasts.

Tips for Enjoying Music without the Jazz Festival:

Plan for Crowds: While you won’t be attending the Jazz Festival itself, many venues will still be packed during that time. Make reservations or arrive early if you want to secure a spot at popular bars or clubs, especially if you’re planning to visit Frenchmen Street or Preservation Hall.
Embrace the Spontaneity: One of the best things about New Orleans is how music seems to pop up everywhere. You might find impromptu jazz performances in parks, on street corners, or in smaller venues that aren’t as well-known.
Stay Flexible: There’s always something happening in New Orleans, so be open to discovering new venues and performances. You might stumble upon a hidden gem with live music that you didn’t expect!

Overall, while the Jazz Festival is a big draw for many visitors, New Orleans is a city that thrives on live music year-round. If you prefer to skip the festival and explore the music scene in the bars and venues, you’ll have no shortage of options. Whether it’s jazz, blues, or something else, there’s always something happening to fill your nights with great sounds!

Hope this helps, and I’m sure you’ll have an unforgettable time experiencing New Orleans' rich musical culture!