It’s New Orleans Music Month in New Orleans with plenty of live music events and festivals throughout the city for every music lover to enjoy. Explore our OffBeat Weekly Picks (October 17-23) to discover the best local happenings!

On Thursday, October 17, 2024, Trinity City Arts will host the 2nd Annual Artivist Awards, a celebration of artist-activists who have shaped the cultural and justice landscape of New Orleans. Taking place at Beanlandia, this event will honor Chakula Cha Jua, Ausettua AmorAmenkum and Walt Sandifer, three individuals who have contributed significantly to activism through the arts. The fundraiser, running from 6-9 p.m., aims to raise funds to engage 500 teenagers in art and activism workshops in 2025. Highlights include live music by local artist Dusky Waters and a silent auction of regional art pieces. You can learn more here.

Also on Thursday, October 17,  New Orleans’ Broadside will host The Coven, an all-star lineup featuring Arsene DeLay, Debbie Davis, Kimberly Kaye, Mia Borders, and more. The show, free and open to the public, will showcase the talents of these powerful women musicians as they come together for a night of unforgettable performances. You can learn more or purchase your tickets here.

 

Fritzel’s European Jazz Club will mark its 55th anniversary on October 17 with a special performance by the Fritzel’s All Star Band, featuring Kevin Ray Clark and Gunhild Carling. The party continues into October 18, with another evening of jazz and celebration at one of New Orleans’ most beloved venues. This milestone will honor Fritzel’s legacy in the city’s vibrant jazz scene. Learn more here.

The NOLA Funk Fest returns to New Orleans from October 18-20, 2024. This year’s festival will kick off with the Russell Batiste Memorial Second Line, featuring The Original Pinettes Brass Band and The Baby Dolls. Friday’s acts include George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners, the New Orleans Suspects with the Dirty Dozen Horns and a headlining performance by bounce queen Big Freedia. Saturday’s lineup boasts highlights such as Dumpstaphunk, The Soul Rebels and a special collaboration between George Porter Jr., Leo Nocentelli, Stanton Moore, and Ivan Neville, performing music by The Meters. Sunday will close the fest with acts like Jason Neville Funky Soul Band, Marcia Ball, Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen and a grand finale by Tank and the Bangas. Learn more or purchase your tickets here.

The Deutsches Haus will kick off its annual Oktoberfest celebrations on Friday, October 18, bringing authentic German culture (and lots of great German bier) to New Orleans in this fabulous fall festival. With live bands, traditional German foods and the famous Schnauzer Parade, this festival is a must-see for those looking to enjoy German heritage and music in a lively setting. You can learn more about the festival, view the schedule and lineup on the website here.

The Historic BK House & Gardens presents another installment of the “Rhythm & Roses” concert series on October 18, featuring Helen Gillet and Rebelle Musique. This Friday night concert will transport attendees with an intoxicating mix of eclectic sounds in an enchanting atmosphere. This intimate concert series, in a historic location, will run through the fall, offering a unique space for New Orleans music lovers to enjoy performances from local favorites. You can learn more about the music series and other upcoming events here.