It’s finally here! The first weekend of Jazz Fest is upon us! Days filled with music, crawfish and most importantly mango freeze. Full days of hardcore jammin’ and eatin’ should be followed by full nights of live music and delicious New Orleans food. Don’t close out your day when the Fair Grounds gates close — go out and explore, eat and take in more music. After your first weekend of Jazz Fest, I guarantee you will have music in your ears the rest of the year while you sit at your desk at work. As New Orleans enthusiasts, it is our duty to enjoy every lingering note and delicious bite possible. There are so many great things going on post fest, you’re sure to keep the Jazz Fest vibes going through the evening. Here are a few of my favorite events that I’m looking forward to:
Shamarr Allen in action. (Photo Credit: shamarrallen.com)
Thursday: Threadhead Records Presents
A great way to start off the first weekend is by spending time with the one and only Threadhead Records, a fan-funded and volunteer-run record company formed for the love of New Orleans and everything music. Formed in 2003 by an online social community united by music, food and New Orleans, this year they are back with their Second Annual Threadhead Thursday series in beautiful City Park where you have a chance to see such local favorites as Shamarr Allen, the legendary Paul Sanchez and Ensemble Fatien. Before heading to this great music celebration, try out one of my favorites: Nonna Mia. You can’t go wrong with the Eggplant Parmesan.
Friday: Dance to the beat with BackBeat
On Friday, venture to Fulton Street for an evening of food and music presented by Backbeat. Start out the evening with Crawfish Etoufee at Grand Isle Restaurant. Finish off your meal with a stop at Gordon Biersch to try all four of their mini-dessert tasters. The Warm Apple Bread Pudding just may change your life. Then get ready to move on the other side of the corridor for some more live music at the 12 Bar. Gracing the stage is Mia Borders, whom I definitely guarantee will put on a heart-touching performance, especially if she performs “Walk on By.” Also performing will be Johnny Sketch and the Dirty Notes and Sister Sparrow.
Saturday: Tour Frenchmen
Get a change of scenery on Saturday with a visit to Frenchmen Street. Nibble away on Fried Alligator Sausage and delicious Stuffed Bell Peppers at Praline Connection. With some time to spare, cross the street and get to know Yuki Izakaya and try some of their Japanese spirits. I suggest the Garyubai Junmai Ginjo. End the night at the Apple Barrel with Maxwell Eaton, Sneaky Pete and more.
So many great things to try during Jazz Fest! Check out this list of Things to do after Jazz Fest.
The 2nd Annual Threadhead Thursday at City Park
Show: 6 PM
Doors: 5:30 PM
Free and Open to the Public: $0
The 12 Bar
608 Fulton Street
504-212-6476
Backbeat Presents (Backbeat Foundation, CEG and Hypersoul):
Show: 9 PM-12pm
Advance Tickets: $15
Apple Barrel
609 Frenchmen Street
(504) 949-9399
Show: 4pm-11pm
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