Festival Guide: Louisiana Born Artists Playing 2nd Weekend Of Jazz Fest 2026

New Orleans, LA [KNGT-FM] -Few festivals in the world capture the spirit of a place quite like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Held each spring in New Orleans, Jazz Fest is more than just a music event; it’s a celebration of Louisiana’s deep cultural roots, rich musical traditions, and vibrant community spirit.

The festival first began in 1970 with a simple mission. It was to honor the music, art, and heritage of Louisiana. Over the decades, it has grown into one of the most respected festivals in the world, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

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Despite its global appeal, Jazz Fest has never lost sight of its original purpose, putting Louisiana culture front and center. What makes Jazz Fest truly special is its commitment to showcasing local talent. In fact, a large majority of the performers each year come from Louisiana.

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From brass bands and jazz ensembles to country, zydeco, Cajun, gospel, blues, and funk, the festival offers a living, breathing soundtrack of the state’s musical identity. Legendary local artists often share the lineup with international superstars, creating a unique blend of homegrown and global sounds.

The festival grounds are filled with Louisiana food vendors serving up classics like crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, po’boys, and beignets. There are also cultural pavilions dedicated to everything from Native American traditions to Mardi Gras Indian culture, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for the people and history that shape the region.

Louisiana-born artists playing the 2026 New Orleans Jazz Festival

Friday, May 1st

• 21st Century Brass Band
• Young Fellaz Brass Band
• Lainey Wilson

Saturday, May 2nd

• Wayne Toups
• Irma Thomas

There are a ton of other artists playing, from local to national recording artists. Check out the full lineup on the Jazz Fest's website here.