Louis Armstrong Park, Photo by Laura DeFazio

International Arts Festival NOLA: A Celebration of Global and Local Talent

 International Arts FestivalThe International Arts Festival (IAF) returns to New Orleans from September 27 to 29, 2024. This three-day event promises to be a vibrant showcase of diverse artistic expressions including a stellar lineup of  music and arts.

The festival kicks off on September 27th with “Jazzy NOLA,” an evening dedicated to jazz at the historic Orpheum Theater. Starting at 8 p.m., this special concert will feature performances by a blend of local jazz legends and international stars.

The festival continues over the weekend at Louis Armstrong Park, where Days 2 and 3 will unfold with an array of performances from noon to 8 p.m. each day. This open-air celebration will transform the park into a vibrant cultural hub, showcasing an impressive lineup of global and local talent.

Festival Highlights:

  • Musical Acts: The IAF NOLA 2024 lineup includes performances by iconic artists such as Steel Pulse, Average White Band, Spyro Gyra and Irvin Mayfield. Also gracing the stage will be reggae sensations Jesse Royal, Yohan Marley and Mystic Marley, alongside jazz virtuoso Kirk Whalum and Big Chief Donald Harrison Jr. The festival will also feature performances by Dub Wise, Choppa, Afrikool All Stars, DJ Ray, Congo Square Society and many more.
  • Emerging Artists: The festival is dedicated to nurturing new talent with the IAF Discover segment, which will spotlight Kye De Vere, IV Jay and the winner of the NOLA Idol competition, to be announced. The lineup also includes Alain Nkossi Konda and Pepe Felly Manuaku Waku.
  • Cultural Exchange: This year’s festival emphasizes the connection between New Orleans and its Sister Cities, fostering cultural exchange and mutual appreciation through artistic collaborations.

For detailed information and ticket purchases, visit the festival’s official website at iafnola.com.