New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, better known as JazzFest, is a must-experience event filled with incredible music, delicious food, and vibrant culture. But if you’re attending for the first time with children in tow, a little preparation can make all the difference. Here’s your guide to navigating Jazz Fest as a family, ensuring a fun and stress-free experience for everyone.
Getting There & Parking
Traffic around the Fair Grounds can be challenging, so plan ahead to avoid unnecessary headaches. Parking is limited, and street parking restrictions are strictly enforced. Consider these options:
- Park & Ride: Several shuttle services run from downtown and other locations, allowing you to skip the parking hassle.
- Bike It: If you’re staying nearby, biking to the festival is a great option. There’s a free bike parking lot at the entrance.
- Ride Shares & Drop-Offs: If taking a ride share, set your drop-off location a few blocks away to avoid congestion.
What to Pack for Kids
Jazz Fest is a long day outdoors, so bringing the right gear is key. Pack:
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect from the sun
- Factory-sealed bottled water (empty refillable bottles are not permitted for entry)
- Small, collapsible chairs or a picnic blanket (6’x8’ or less)
- Noise-canceling headphones for younger kids sensitive to loud music
- Snacks for personal consumption
- A lightweight, push-style stroller (wagons and rolling carts are not allowed)
- Handheld, personal-sized umbrellas (beach and pole-style umbrellas are not allowed)
Navigating the Festival Grounds
With multiple stages and activities, Jazz Fest can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to keep it manageable:
- Visit the Kids’ Tent: This dedicated family area features kid-friendly entertainment and interactive fun.
- Set a Meeting Spot: In case anyone gets separated, designate a clear and easy-to-find location.
- Take Breaks: The festival can be hot and crowded, so plan for downtime in shaded areas.
- Use the Map: Check out the official festival map ahead of time to locate family-friendly spots, bathrooms, and food vendors.
Must-Try Festival Foods for Families
Food is a major highlight of Jazz Fest! Here are some kid-approved options:
- Beignets – A sweet and delicious treat, perfect for little hands.
- Crawfish Bread – A festival favorite that’s easy to share.
- Crawfish Monica – A creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s both iconic and easy for kids to enjoy.
- Mango Freeze – A refreshing and cool treat to beat the heat.
- Grilled Cheese & Mac-n-Cheese – Found at various food vendors, these classics are great for picky eaters.
Keeping Kids Engaged
Jazz Fest offers more than just music. To keep kids entertained, try:
- Cultural Demonstrations: Check out the crafts and live artist demonstrations.
- Parades & Second Lines: Kids love joining in on the festive mini-parades.
- Face Painting & Art Booths: Many vendors offer fun activities for children.
Final Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Arrive early to find a good spot and avoid the biggest crowds.
- Dress kids in bright, recognizable clothing to keep track of them.
- Jazz Fest is a cashless event, so be sure to bring a credit or debit card, or use a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay. For those with cash only, visit a Cash Exchange booth to obtain a prepaid card (up to $500 per card, with no fees).
- Know your exit strategy—plan how and when to leave to avoid traffic and overtired little ones.
What’s Not Allowed
To avoid delays at the gate, be sure to leave these items at home:
- Wagons, pull-carts, rolling bags, and hard-sided or large coolers
- Large chairs with rockers, footrests, or side tables
- Outside beverages (except factory-sealed water bottles)
- Drones, glass, or inflatable items
- Personal tents, shade canopies, or shelters
- Pets and playpens or portable cribs
- Umbrellas over 63″, ropes, tape, stakes, or poles to reserve space
- Promotional items, video/audio recording equipment, or unauthorized vending
Jazz Fest is an unforgettable experience for the whole family, and with a little planning, parents can ensure that even the youngest festival-goers have a fantastic time. So grab your dancing shoes, savor the flavors of New Orleans, and let the good times roll!