Summer Summer Summer Time! - 2024 Summer New Orleans Festivals

New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, and summer brings a slew of festivals that celebrate its music, cuisine, and traditions. Here are some of the major festivals you can expect in New Orleans during the summer:

1. Essence Festival: Held annually in early July, the Essence Festival is one of the largest celebrations of African American culture and music in the United States. It features performances by top R&B, soul, and hip-hop artists, as well as empowerment seminars, beauty expos, and more. This year's line up includes Janet Jackson, Birdman & Friends, Charlie Wilson, SVW, Tank & The Bangas, Plus More! The festival dates for 2024 are July 4th - 7th.
2. Satchmo SummerFest: Honoring the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong, Satchmo SummerFest will occur August 3rd - 4th this year. The festival features live jazz performances, seminars, and a traditional jazz mass at the historic St. Augustine Church. Admission is free!
3. San Fermin in Nueva Orleans (The Running of the Bulls): This unique event, inspired by the famous running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, takes place in July. Participants dress in white with red scarves and run through the streets of New Orleans ahead of roller derby girls dressed as "bulls." It's a fun and quirky way to experience the city's culture. Check it out on July 13th at Gallier Hall!
4. Tales of the Cocktail: While not strictly a summer festival, Tales of the Cocktail will occur July 21st - 26th and is a must-attend event for cocktail enthusiasts and industry professionals. It features seminars, tastings, competitions, and parties, celebrating the art of cocktail making.
5. Creole Tomato Festival: Celebrating the beloved Creole tomato, this festival usually takes place June 8th & 9th. It features food vendors serving up delicious tomato-based dishes, live music, cooking demonstrations, and a Bloody Mary Market.

​These are just a few of the major festivals that happen in New Orleans during the summer. The city's calendar is always packed with events celebrating its rich cultural heritage, so there's always something exciting happening!