Troy Andrews performs with students from the Trombone Shorty Academy at Tunes for Toys. Photo by Erika Goldring.

Tunes for Toys 2024 Returns to Tipitina’s with a Star-Studded Lineup

Get ready to jingle all the way to Tipitina’s for an unforgettable night of music and giving! The Trombone Shorty Foundation and the Gia Maione Prima Foundation proudly announce the return of the annual “Tunes for Toys” Toy Drive and Concert on Thursday, December 12, 2024. This beloved holiday tradition combines world-class performances with a community-driven mission, making it a highlight of the New Orleans holiday season.

This year’s lineup is guaranteed to bring the house down, featuring Trombone Shorty, the electrifying Afro-Cuban funk of Cimafunk and his band La Tribu, and a showcase of local talent from the Trombone Shorty Academy. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the music starts at 8 p.m. Admission is free for attendees aged 18 and older, with a simple request: bring a new toy to support children in need.

Bill Taylor, founding Executive Director of the Trombone Shorty Foundation, shared his excitement about this year’s event. “We are filled with holiday cheer about bringing our annual Tunes for Toys concert to the
greatest music venue in the world–Tipitina’s,” says Bill Taylor, founding Executive Director of
the Trombone Shorty Foundation. “And this year will be truly special with an Afro-Cuban funk
celebration from our dear friends from Cuba, Cimafunk & La Tribu.”

The magic of Tunes for Toys doesn’t stop at the concert. The toys collected during the event will be distributed the next day, Friday, December 13, at Warren Easton High School from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Families can enjoy live music and refreshments at this free community giveaway, where every child in attendance will receive a toy.

The event is made possible by the Gia Maione Prima Foundation, a long-standing supporter of music and arts in New Orleans.“Tunes for Toys is a wonderful way to start off the holiday season and we are thrilled to continue supporting this great event” states Anthony J. Sylvester, Trustee to the Gia Maione Prima Foundation. The Gia Maione Prima Foundation honors the legacy of jazz legend Louis Prima and his wife, Gia Maione Prima, by fostering appreciation for American jazz and music performance through their philanthropic efforts.

Event Details

  • What: “Tunes for Toys”
  • When: Thursday, December 12, 2024 (Doors: 7 p.m., Show: 8 p.m.)
  • Where: Tipitina’s, 501 Napoleon Avenue, New Orleans
  • Admission: Free with the donation of a new toy (ages 18+)

Don’t miss this spectacular night of music and community spirit. Mark your calendars, grab a toy, and join in spreading holiday cheer with the power of music. For more information, visit the Tipitina’s website.