FAQ’s

What is Satchmo SummerFest?

Satchmo SummerFest is the premier American festival dedicated to the life, legacy, and music of New Orleans’ native son, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. It features live music, New Orleans cuisine, and fascinating lectures about Louis Armstrong and jazz music. Access to the festival is free, thanks to support from New Orleans & Company. Satchmo SummerFest’s presenting sponsor is the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF). The festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Learn more about FQFI here

Where is Satchmo SummerFest?

Satchmo SummerFest, presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF), takes place at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, located at 400 Esplanade Avenue. The majority of the music programming is outdoors on the grounds of the museum, with some programming inside. Access to the museum’s exhibits is FREE during the festival!

What are the hours of satchmo summerfest?

12 noon – 8 pm, daily (Saturday and Sunday)

How much does it cost to attend?

Entrance to Satchmo SummerFest is free! Museum entrance (regularly $8) is also free during the festival. Food and beverages are available for purchase; no outside food or beverages are allowed inside the festival.

Satchmo SummerFest is a nonprofit program offered for free to the community by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that uplifts and sustains New Orleans’ cultural economy – and those who create it. Learn more about FQFI here.

Can I bring my cooler or ice chest?

Satchmo SummerFest does not permit outside food and beverages, coolers, ice chests, or large containers in the main festival areas. We rely on revenue from beverages, merchandise, and sponsorship to produce this free community event. Support your community and help keep the festival accessible to all by purchasing your beverages on-site.

What items are prohibited inside Festival Gates?
  • Outside food and beverages
    Weapons
    Drones
    Kites
    Glass bottles and containers
    Fireworks
    Professional radios or walkie-talkies
    Bicycles inside of festival grounds
    Soliciting or vending materials, unless previously authorized
    Pets
    Tents or sun shades
    Stakes
    Poles
    Unauthorized signage
    Illicit Drugs
    Bullhorns or other audio amplification equipment (e.g. speakers)
    Personal golf carts or other motorized vehicles

 

What happens if festival-goers show up at the gate with a prohibited item?

The attendee will have the option to discard or surrender the prohibited item, or they can secure the item at a location of their choice (e.g., car, hotel room). Surrendered items cannot be returned and will be forfeited.  

 

Can I bring prescription medications, baby formula, or milk?

These substances are exempt from the rules above, pending inspection.

Does the Festival provide ADA resources?

Details on accessible viewing areas, bathroom locations, recommended pathways, and other accommodations can be found on our Accessibility Page or the Information Booth on-site.

Can I bring lawn chairs and seating?

 Lawn chairs and picnic blankets are allowed on the festival grounds.