It’s fall festival season in New Orleans with plenty of live music events and Halloween happenings throughout the city for every music lover to enjoy. Explore our OffBeat Weekly Picks(October 24-30) to discover the best local happenings!
At The Broadside on Thursday, October 24, bounce music queen Big Freedia headlines Wobble Fest, a high-energy event celebrating the launch of the Wobble THC Energy Drink. This festival features iconic New Orleans bounce artists Ha Sizzle, BJ So Cole, and Fly Boi Keno, alongside Big Freedia herself. As part of the celebration of the new season of “Big Freedia Means Business,” this festival is sure to be a night of pulsating beats and unforgettable performances. Learn more or purchase tickets here.
On Friday, October 25, the legendary Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey begins a two-day residency at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. With over 30 years of evolution, this genre-defying band returns to its renowned trio lineup featuring Reed Mathis, Brian Haas and Jason Smart. Known for their unique fusion of jazz, funk and rock, JFJO’s performance is a must-see for music lovers. Tickets are available for $40, with performances at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. You can learn more here.
The Deutsches Haus continues its Oktoberfest celebration on this weekend. Experience the best of German culture, with live music from both local and visiting bands, traditional German songs, dancing, a Schnauzer parade, and an array of German food, desserts, and, of course, beer. Learn more here.
The 5th Annual NOLA Reggae Fest takes over Congo Square this weekend with over 20 musical acts across two stages. The festival celebrates Caribbean culture with food vendors, arts, crafts and kids’ activities. The event will feature performances from notable artists such as reggae icon Yellowmanand Jamaica’s I-Octane, alongside New Orleans-based acts like Rebirth Brass Band and HA Sizzle. In addition to local and international reggae and dancehall performers, the festival will host DJs from Jamaica, Trinidad and Nigeria. You can view the full lineup or purchase tickets here.
Join the Rhythm & Roses Concert series on Friday, October 25, for an intimate performance by Dusky Waters and Rachel Maxann. Dusky Waters blends folk, gospel, soul, and pop into songs that capture the magic of the Deep South, with soulful lyricism and vibrant harmonies. Set in the picturesque Historic BK House & Gardens, the concert starts at 6 p.m., offering a magical evening of soulful tunes in a beautiful venue. You can learn more at the BK House website.
On Saturday, October 26, the Tremé Fall Fest returns from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the festival features an exciting lineup of live music, including performances by The James Rivers Movement, Shannon Powell & The Traditional All Stars, Doreen Ketchens Jazz New Orleans, James Andrews & The Crescent City All Stars, joined by special guest John Boutte. Closing out the event will be the TBC Brass Band, featuring Ha Sizzle and Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph. The festival supports the preservation of St. Augustine Catholic Church. You can view the full line up or learn more here.
The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra presents its annual Halloween Spooktacular at Roussel Hall, Loyola University, on Saturday, October 26. Grab your costumes and the family and join us for a spine-tingling, family-friendly Kids’ Halloween Concert featuring music from Star Trek, Frozen and more! Arrive early for Musician Learning Stations starting at 10:15 a.m. before the concert kicks off at 11 a.m. You can learn more here.
Photo by Golden G Richard III.
Get ready for a night of Ninth Ward nostalgia and revelry as Morning 40 Federation and The Tin Men perform at Santos on Saturday, October 26. Known for their boisterous, booze-soaked performances, Morning 40 Federation brings back an annul Halloween tradition and a wild energy to this double bill. Tickets are available for purchase online.
Photo by Clayton Call
On Sunday, October 27, the Nickel-A-Dance series continues with a free performance by Herlin Riley & the Jazz Hounds at Favela Chic. Running from 4 to 7 p.m., this event invites attendees to dance along to the lively tunes of one of New Orleans’ jazz greats as part of the city’s NOLA Music Month.
Weekly Picks(October 24-30) Weekly Picks(October 24-30)
