It’s the most wonderful time of the year in New Orleans, and while Christmas is certainly a contender, it is no match for New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. The beloved annual worldwide tradition returned to the Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots to open with a globally renowned lineup last weekend.
The festivities kicked off on Friday as dozens of acts dotted the Fair Grounds’ ten stages and music filled the air. Lizzo took top billing as she delivered a set of poppy positive affirmations. Playing up against Lizzo across the race track were Led Zeppelin co-founder Robert Plant alongside songstress Alison Krauss, while at the same moment Wu Tang Clan and The Soul Rebels teamed up for a collaboration and—still—at the same time in the Blues Tent, Mavis Staple laid bare her soul for the thousands of festivalgoers. It’s tough choices like that which define Jazz Fest and make it a globally renowned institution.
While Friday enjoyed the clear coastal sunshine of New Orleans, Saturday was a different story as intermittent downpours kept some at bay. Others, however, donned their ponchos and headed down to the Fair Grounds to take in international pop star Ed Sheeran. Saturday’s lineup also saw performances from classic rocker Steve Miller Band alongside funky guitarist Cory Wong, blues torchbearer Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, and many others.
Finally, Sunday brought weekend one of Jazz Fest 2023 to a close with local heavy hitters Dumpstaphunk, Cyrill Neville, Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen, and more. They closed out a lineup that brought top acts Tedeschi Trucks Band, Kenny Loggins, Jill Scott, Jamie Cullum, and Marcus King to the biggest stages.
Check out a gallery of images from weekend one of New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest 2023 from photographer Ron Valle. The festival returns to the Fair Grounds May 4th–7th.
