Satchmo SummerFest has become a hot ticket in New Orleans in more way than one! The blistering days of summer combine with the sounds of cool jazz to create a musical storm to wash away the doldrums and bring out the crowds to the grounds of the Old U.S. Mint.
This will be the 15th annual SatchmoFest, which started as a one-off in 2001 to honor one of New Orleans’ most famous denizens, Louis Armstrong, otherwise known as Satchmo. It was such a huge success that it has occurred every year since. The event brings together Jazz fans of all ages to appreciate two live music stages outside, featuring Deacon John, Jewel Brown, Bill Summers, Rebirth Brass Band, Yoshio Toyama, Kermit Ruffins and over 40 more.
Concessions will be available for drinks and food, and plenty of fun for the children, including a book nook, coconut decorating, instrument making and even a Kids Second Line Parade! How fun!
Indoors, Jazz aficionados will take part in seminars inside the Old Mint, in the Cabaret Theater. You can learn all about Satchmo himself, as well as history of jazz, and presentations on other jazz greats.
In addition to the festival events listed above, you can also take part in a screening of High Society at Le Petit Theatre, the opening reception at the Omni Hotel on July 30 at 8pm, the exciting and fun Opening Day Second Line Parade at Washington Artillery Park , starting at 10:30am and a Jazz Mass and Second Line Parade from the Church of Sidney Bechet on Sunday, August 2nd.
Make sure to reserve your rooms as soon as possible, the city sells out early for this amazing summer spectacle!