French Quarter Festivals, Inc. has announced the 25th anniversary of Satchmo SummerFest. The two-day celebration honoring the life and legacy of jazz legend Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong will take place Aug. 2–3 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. The festival remains free and open to the public.
Launched in 2001 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Armstrong’s birth, Satchmo SummerFest has grown into a beloved summer tradition. Each August, the festival welcomes locals and visitors alike to celebrate the sound, soul, and enduring influence of one of New Orleans’ most iconic cultural figures.
This year’s silver anniversary edition will feature more than 25 live performances, conversations with Armstrong scholars and a culinary lineup that highlights bold New Orleans flavors. Programming will take place on two outdoor tented stages: the Fidelity Bank Stage and the Delta Utilities Stage, as well as inside the museum.
“Marking 25 years of Satchmo SummerFest is more than a celebration,” said FQFI President & CEO Emily Madero. “It’s a heartfelt tribute to Armstrong’s musical legacy and to the traditions and community that continue to gather each year in his honor.”
Lisa Alexis, President of NOTCF, added, “This festival exemplifies New Orleans’ commitment to uplifting our artists and culture bearers. It reflects the heartbeat of the city—our music, our people, and our traditions.”
Walt Leger III, President & CEO of New Orleans & Company, encouraged locals and visitors to make a weekend of it. “Satchmo SummerFest is the perfect excuse to rediscover New Orleans in August. Pair it with a stay downtown, Museum Month perks, and COOLinary dining specials—all while enjoying a free festival that showcases the best of who we are.”
Music Lineup Highlights
This year’s performances span traditional jazz, brass and marching bands, funk, R&B and jazz fusion which illustrate the genre’s evolution in the city where it was born. Notable acts include:
Debut Performances:
Shamarr Allen with special guest Cyril Neville (first appearance since 2017)
Alicia Renee (aka Blue Eyes) featuring Z2
Trombone Talk tribute to Kid Ory
Kyle Roussel’s Church of New Orleans featuring Erica Falls and Quiana Lynell
Lilli Lewis
Young Fellaz Brass Band
Returning Favorites:
Kermit Ruffins’ tribute to Louis Armstrong
James Andrews & the Sons of Satchmo
Jelly Joseph
The Original Pinettes Brass Band
John Boutté
Ricky Riccardi & Wendell Brunious
The Gallatin Street Records Piano Sessions, presented by the New Orleans Jazz Museum, also return this year with intimate indoor sets. Highlights include a rare performance by Armstrong biographer and two-time Grammy winner Ricky Riccardi, joined onstage by legendary trumpeter Wendell Brunious.
For a full line up and more information, click here.
