In what is being hailed as a historic gathering celebrating the cultural richness of New Orleans, an unprecedented 500,000 music enthusiasts flocked to the 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell. With a star-studded lineup that included the iconic Rolling Stones making their inaugural appearance at the festival, Jazz Fest organizers declared the event a resounding success. Against a backdrop of mostly sunny skies, the festival illuminated the significance of New Orleans in shaping American and global culture.

Spanning two weekends, the Jazz Fest presented a mesmerizing array of musical genres, from blues, gospel, and rock to R&B, traditional and contemporary jazz, Cajun and zydeco, brass band and more. Attendees were also treated to over 100 delectable dishes of Louisiana’s renowned cuisine, served up in a festive atmosphere. Additionally, three acclaimed arts and crafts fairs showcased handmade crafts from Louisiana and beyond, adding to the cultural tapestry of the event.

The highlight of this year’s festival was undoubtedly the historic performance by the Rolling Stones on Thursday, May 2, marking the culmination of a five-year endeavor to bring the legendary band to Jazz Fest.

“This year’s Festival presented as plainly as ever the beauty of Jazz Fest,” said Quint Davis, Producer/Director of the event. “Watching the Rolling Stones perform with New Orleans and Louisiana stars Irma Thomas and Dwayne Dopsie was to witness the power of the Festival to demonstrate the connection of our culture to some of the greatest music of our time.”

Other notable performances included Jon Batiste’s homage to New Orleans piano legends, the Foo Fighters’ electric return, and a multifaceted tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett.

Looking ahead, organizers have announced that next year’s event is scheduled to take place from April 24 to May 4, 2025, promising another spectacular celebration of music and culture. For the latest updates on Jazz Fest, attendees are encouraged to visit www.nojazzfest.com and follow the festival on social media platforms.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting education, economic development, and cultural enrichment, owns the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell. Proceeds from Jazz Fest support year-round activities aimed at preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of New Orleans.

The festival is made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including Shell USA as the Presenting Sponsor, along with major sponsors such as Expedia, Miller Lite, and the Louisiana Office of Tourism. Other official sponsors include First Horizon Bank, Ochsner Health, and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, among others.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell is a collaborative effort between Festival Productions, Inc.-New Orleans, and AEG Presents, highlighting the enduring spirit of New Orleans and its contributions to the world of music and culture.