New Orleans native Ray Meyer has been a Jazz Fest regular since 1971, when he attended his first Jazz Fest in Congo Square.

Photo by: Stephen Maloney

Meyer said he has seen a lot of changes to the festival over the years, from the location to the sponsors.

“Schlitz beer sponsored Jazz Fest in 1971,” he said. “That was the year before they moved over to the Fairgrounds. I’ve been coming back ever since.”

Rain or shine, Meyer said he always makes attending Jazz Fest a priority.

“I love the people, the food, and just the vibe,” he said. “I was too young for Woodstock, so this is my Woodstock – every year.”

Carrying an umbrella for shade and sticking close to the grandstands during the hottest parts of the day are the keys to staying comfortable and cool, Meyer said.

Check out more pictures from Friday, April 25, 2014 at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.