He’s performed on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert, played himself on HBO’s Treme, and even collaborated with Disney on the Jungle Book soundtrack. Kermit Ruffins has been expanding his musical reach far beyond the Crescent City. The legendary New Orleans jazz trumpeter is now decking the halls with a holiday concert, Kermit Ruffins’ Kickoff to Christmas.

Presented by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) and French Market Corporation, the show will take place on November 30 at 5:30 p.m., kicking off the month-long Christmas celebration: the 34th annual Christmas New Orleans Style. The kickoff event will take place at Washington Artillery Park and include a performance by the Roots of Music, along with the annual tree lighting and fireworks.

The month-long Christmas extravaganza will bring Reveillon feasts to over 50 local restaurants, 65 special holiday events, and over a dozen free concerts. Aside from Kermit Ruffins’ opening performance, the seasonal event will celebrate the traditions of jazz music, gospel choirs, classical ensembles and more. Free concerts will be held at St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square and at St. Augustine Church in the Treme.

In a press release, FQFI president and CEO Emily Madero said, “These concerts support our mission to showcase our unique culture and heritage. We’re proud of the diverse lineup that represents 300 years of history, with genres ranging from Cajun to Gospel and Latin to Jazz!”

For the complete calendar of Christmas New Orleans Style, visit https://fqfi.org/.