If Kermit Ruffins is throwing a party, you know it’s going to be a good one. And if it’s his own 50th birthday party, there’s probably no better show in town.

His exuberant birthday parties at the House of Blues have become a yearly tradition, and the celebration this Friday, December 19, is sure to be better than ever.

The ever-grinning trumpeter/singer co-founded Rebirth Brass Band, and he was a popular recurring guest on the hit show Treme.

He plays regularly across the city with his Barbecue Swingers and he’s opened, operated, and manned the kitchen at Kermit’s Treme Speakeasy and Kermit’s Mother-In-Law Lounge.

But the perennial entertainer is almost as well known for his neighborly generosity, good cheer, and kick-ass barbeque. And man, can he throw a party.

Friday’s lineup will feature Kermit and the Barbecue Swingers, the Nayo Jones Experience, the Neshia Ruffins Band, and various special guests.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and tickets are on sale now for $27.

All aboard!