This weekend, downtown New Orleans turns into a giant celebration of blues, barbecue, and community. The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival returns to Lafayette Square Park on October 9, 10, and 11, 2026, marking a very special milestone: 20 years of keeping the blues alive in the Crescent City.
Presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the festival honors New Orleans’ historic role in making blues and R&B some of the most influential sounds in the world. Best of all, admission is completely free and open to everyone.
Two stages will fill the park with soul-stirring music all weekend long. Friday night opens with Johnny Sansone followed by beloved blues star Ruthie Foster. Saturday brings names like Jimmy “Duck” Holmes, Linda Gail Lewis, Cedric Burnside, and powerhouse guitarist Samantha Fish closing the night. Sunday keeps the good vibes going with Dexter Allen, Kenny Brown, Terrance Simien and the Zydeco Experience, Little Freddie King, and Mia Borders.
Between sets, visitors can savor smoky barbecue from some of the region’s best vendors, browse a lively arts market with local visual artists, and soak in the joyful atmosphere under the oaks of Lafayette Square. As Taj Mahal once said, “Blues is not just about the bad times; it’s about the healing spirit” — and that healing, happy spirit will be felt everywhere this weekend.
The festival runs Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., at 602 St. Charles Avenue. Grab your friends, bring your appetite, and let the good times roll!
Photo: The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation
