Hey, y’all! It’s Dat NOLA Chic, your go-to gal for all things New Orleans. You know I’m a huge fan of our city’s rich musical culture, and today, I want to talk about the most exciting day of the week at the New Orleans Jazz Festival: Local Thursdays! This is when the heart and soul of our city takes center stage. If you’re ready to experience the true essence of NOLA, grab your festival hat and dancing shoes, and let’s dive right in!
Local Thursday Discount Details:
On May 4th, Louisiana residents can purchase discounted tickets at the gate for just $50! Be sure to bring a valid ID as proof of residency, and remember that you can buy up to two admissions per resident.
But wait, there’s more! For those of you who love a presale, there’s an exclusive opportunity for Louisiana residents with a local billing zip code. The presale starts on Tuesday, May 2nd at 12:00 p.m. and runs through Wednesday, May 3rd at 11:00 p.m. Just keep in mind that these presale tickets will be mobile-only, non-printable, and non-transferable, so you’ll need to enter the Fair Grounds with your guest.
Now that you know how to save on Local Thursday, let’s check out some of the incredible acts you’ll be able to catch!
The Unmatched Talent:
Local Thursdays showcase our beloved city’s incredible musical talent, with a lineup of established acts and up-and-coming stars. You’ll get to hear brass bands like the Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Soul Rebels, and Treme Brass Band, as well as jazz legends like Irma Thomas, Jon Batiste, and Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr.. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to catch our rising stars, too –Trumpet Mafia they’re sure to blow you away with their passion and creativity!
Our Rich Musical Heritage:
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and our music is steeped in a rich history that goes back centuries. When you’re grooving to the beats on Local Thursdays, you’re not just enjoying a fantastic show – you’re participating in a living, breathing tradition that has shaped our city’s identity. Whether it’s second line parades, Mardi Gras Indians, or the sweet, soulful sounds of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, you’ll be soaking up the true essence of NOLA culture.
The Venues:
Local Thursdays are all about celebrating our city’s vibrant music scene, and that includes the amazing venues that host our talented musicians. From intimate jazz clubs like Snug Harbor and The Spotted Cat to historic locations like Tipitina’s and the Maple Leaf, you’ll be able to experience the magic of NOLA music up close and personal at the iconic Jazz Fest stages, including the Jazz & Heritage Stage, Congo Square Stage, and Acura Stage.
Now that you know how to save on Local Thursday, let’s check out some of the incredible acts you’ll be able to catch!
Festival Stage
11:20AM – 12:20 PM : Marcia Ball
12:40 PM – 1:50 PM : Big Sam’s Funky Nation
3:50 PM – 4:50 PM : Irma Thomas
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM : Jon Batiste
Congo Square Stage
11:15 AM – 12:05 PM: Sierra Green & The Soul Machine
12:30 PM – 1:25 PM: Rumba Buena
1:45 PM – 2:40 PM: Kris Baptiste and Deelow Diamond Man
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr.
4:25 PM – 5:25 PM:The Soul Rebels
5:55 PM – 7:00 PM: Ludacris
Tips for Enjoying Local Thursdays:
- Arrive early: Local Thursdays are wildly popular, so be sure to get there early to secure a good spot and avoid long lines.
- Dress comfortably: NOLA weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your festival hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen!
- Stay hydrated: Dancing to the tunes of our local musicians can work up a sweat. Keep a reusable water bottle handy to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Explore the food: Local Thursdays are a culinary treat, too! Enjoy the mouthwatering Creole and Cajun cuisine available at the festival, from crawfish étouffée to beignets.
- Support local artists: Don’t forget to pick up some merch or a CD from your favorite acts to show your support and keep the music alive.
Mark your calendars, my fellow Louisianians, and get ready for an unforgettable Local Thursday on May 4th at the New Orleans Jazz Festival! With discounted tickets and a fantastic lineup of our city’s finest musicians, there’s no better way to celebrate the heart, soul, and incredible talent that makes NOLA the vibrant, soulful place we all know and love. So, come on down and let the good times roll, baby! Laissez les bon temps rouler!
Source credit: http://www.jazzandheritage.org/
Dat NOLA Chic 