It’s almost time for the kids to head back to school, and the traffic to get more hectic by the day. Summer is coming to a close, but as always, there’s a fest for that.
Satchmo Summerfest began in 2001 as a way to celebrate Louis Armstrong’s 100th birthday, but now it’s grown into a three-day festival (Aug. 2 – 4) featuring more than 30 acts and food vendors. The fest also includes local traditions like a Jazz Mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church in the Treme, followed by a second line from the church to the festival.
First time going? Here’s what you need to know:
Where to park
The fest takes place at the Old U.S. Mint, at the end of Esplanade Avenue. You can find paid parking at a lot on nearby Elysian Fields Avenue and walk two blocks across Frenchman Street to get to the Mint.
Organizers also suggest parking in the paid lot along the riverfront. The entrance to get in is near Jax Brewery, and if you walk to the end of the lot, it will bring you right to the Mint.
If you come early enough, you may be able to find street parking on Esplanade, Rampart, or Elysian Fields, or even the Bywater if you’re willing to walk a bit.
You can also use one of the Blue Bikes, and the fest offers a free $5 code for new riders. Click here for more information.
What to pack
The entrance fee to get in is $6, so you’ll want to bring at least that in cash. Children 12 and under are free. If you’re looking to listen to music at one of the two stages, you’ll want to bring a festival chair. One of the stages is outside, and the other is on the second floor of the Jazz Museum at the Mint.
This fest doesn’t allow coolers, ice chests, glass bottles, or outside food or drink. And as much as we love them please leave your furry friends at home.
This fest is also family-friendly, featuring a special Pops’ Playhouse for Kids in the Jazz Museum. Activities on Saturday and Sunday include Zulu coconut decorating, second line umbrella decorating, sewing classes and drum making classes, just to make a few.
Where to pee
There are port-o-lets on Barracks Street, near the ticket area and entrance of the fest, as well as additional bathrooms on the first and second floors of the Jazz Museum.
Want to find out more about the food or musical acts at the fest? Trying to plan our your schedule? Click here for more on the Satchmo Summerfest.
