The 17th Annual Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival will take place October 11-13, 2024 at Lafayette Square Park, offering a weekend of rousing blues and delicious barbecue. Presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the free festival features an impressive lineup of local and national blues artists, as well as some of the area’s best barbecue vendors and a local art market.

Headlining the festival will be Lil Ed & the Blues Imperials from Chicago, known for their energetic performances, and the legendary Irma Thomas & the Professionals from New Orleans. Irma, often hailed as the “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” will bring her timeless vocals to the festival’s two stages, complementing the rich lineup of blues talent.

Other artists include renowned blues artists such as Kenny Neal, Marcia Ball and Sue Foley, as well as fan favorites such as Nikki Hill, Leyla McCalla, Chris Thomas King and Little Freddie King. The 2024 edition will also include homages to blues greats, including a James Cotton Tribute with Mark Hummel and Steve Freund.

In addition to first-class blues, visitors can enjoy performances by Sierra Green & the Giants, Mitch Woods & his Rocket 88s, Billy Iuso and Sunpie Barnes & the Louisiana Sunspots, among others. The festival’s lineup promises a diverse range of sounds from classic blues to contemporary blues-rock and roots music. Additional artists and the release of daily schedules will be announced soon.

The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival isn’t just about the music. It pays homage to Southern cuisine with a strong focus on barbecue. Attendees can enjoy a wide selection of slow-cooked meats, flavorful sauces and smoked delicacies from the region’s best barbecue providers. The festival’s popular art market will also return, showcasing local artisans and offering a selection of handmade crafts, jewelry and artwork.

Presented by the nonprofit New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival is dedicated to supporting local artists, musicians and cultural leaders. Admission to the event is free, making it open to the public and ensuring a lively atmosphere for all participants.

For more information about the festival and updates on the lineup, visit jazzandheritage.org.

Event details:

• Date: 11th–13th October 2024
• Location: Lafayette Square Park (602 St. Charles Ave.), New Orleans, LA
• Permit: Free and open to the public