Satchmo SummerFest, presented by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF), celebrates its milestone 25th anniversary on August 2 and 3 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Organized by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), this landmark event honors the enduring legacy of New Orleans’ musical legend, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. Since its founding in 2001, marking the centennial of Armstrong’s birth, the festival has grown into a cherished summer tradition. It offers more than two dozen musical performances, eight culinary vendors, and free special events, while waiving the museum’s standard admission fee.
“Reaching our 25th year feels like a profound moment of reflection and gratitude,” said Emily Madero, President & CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. in a press release. “We’re not just commemorating a festival anniversary. Each year, we’ve witnessed how Armstrong’s genius continues to inspire new generations of musicians.”
Gates are open from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and the public is invited to enjoy this celebratory weekend, including Saturday’s Satchmo Sound-Off with The Roots of Music and Sunday’s Jazz Mass at St. Augustine Church, followed by the annual Satchmo Salute Parade through the Tremé and French Quarter.
As part of the 25th anniversary celebration, Satchmo SummerFest is expanding its commitment to guest wellness and accessibility. New this year is the “Keeping You Well” initiative, a partnership with LCMC Health that enhances on-site medical and wellness services. Licensed healthcare professionals will be stationed throughout the festival grounds to provide first aid, distribute free sunscreen, and share wellness resources to help guests stay safe and comfortable throughout the weekend.
The festival opens on Saturday with the Satchmo Sound-Off, a high-energy kickoff performance by The Roots of Music, the city’s premier youth marching band. They take the stage at 11:30 AM under the Fidelity Bank tent on the Barracks Street side of the museum. Additional highlights include performances by The Original Pinettes Brass Band, Charmaine Neville, and Victor Campbell, along with exciting festival debuts from Alicia Renee aka Blue Eyes featuring Z2, Kyle Roussel’s Church of New Orleans featuring Erica Falls and Quiana Lynell, and a special appearance by Satchmo scholar Ricky Riccardi performing alongside Wendell Brunious.
Festival cuisine will once again reflect the city’s rich and diverse culinary traditions. Eight vendors will serve a variety of local favorites. Returning offerings include 14 Parishes’ Caribbean dishes, Café Dauphine’s soul food, Mrs. Wheat’s Pies’ meat pies, Plum St. Snoballs’ icy treats, and Southerns’ fried chicken. New to the lineup are In a Bowl, offering smoothie-based delights, and Lillie’s Cajun Kitchen, featuring Louisiana classics like crawfish étouffée, collard greens, and fried fish.
“Our partnership with Satchmo SummerFest aligns perfectly with our mission to support community wellbeing,” said Greg Feirn, CEO of LCMC Health. “By offering strategically placed first aid stations and free sunscreen, we’re ensuring everyone can fully enjoy the celebration.”
For more information and the full lineup, visit here.
