The New Orleans Zydeco Festival (NOZF) returns to Crescent Park on Saturday, November 2, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. This year’s event, co-founded by Gabrielle Deculus and Courtney Smith, honors the legacy of their great-grandfather, zydeco pioneer Alphonse “Bois Sec” Ardoin, while celebrating Louisiana’s vibrant Creole traditions through music, food and dance.
Festival attendees will be treated to an all-day lineup featuring some of the biggest names in Zydeco music. Headlining the festival are celebrated artists like Dwayne Dopsie, Rusty Metoyer, Wayne Singleton, Alphonse Ardoin, Koray Broussard, Harold Guillory and Arthur Corbin with Shan Bailey.
There’s more than just live music at the festival. There will be a range of food available including Creole and Cajun options as well as a gumbo cook-off. For those interested in family history, a Creole genealogy exhibit will delve into the roots and stories of Creole families, particularly those who helped shape the zydeco tradition. Dance is also a big part of the festival, with zydeco dance lessons offered throughout the day and a dance competition. There will also be a Kids Zone to help keep younger festivalgoers entertained as well as a mechanical bull for those looking to test their balance. There are also VIP Lounge experience with prime viewing areas and special amenities.
The festival isn’t only about entertainment—it’s also dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of zydeco music. In 2022, Deculus and Smith founded the New Orleans Zydeco Foundation with the mission to develop the Ardoin family homestead in Mamou, Louisiana, into a Historical Civil Rights and National Music Landmark, as well as a Zydeco History Museum and community space. The foundation’s programs aim to share Creole heritage with younger generations through youth programs, historical education,and live performances by Ardoin family descendants and other zydeco musicians who carry on the tradition.
Festival Details
- Date: Saturday, November 2
- Time: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
- Location: Crescent Park, Mandeville Shed, 100 Mandeville Street, New Orleans, LA 70117
For ticketing and more information, visit nolazydecofest.com.
New Orleans Zydeco Festival
