The 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival wrapped with an attendance dip to around 460,000 over its traditional eight-day stretch — down from 500,000 visitors last year. Daily crowds slid to roughly 57,500, a marked decline from 67,800 in 2022, highlighting a steady downward trend in foot traffic.
Early days of each weekend faced lighter turnouts, while second weekend headliners like Pearl Jam drew big crowds, confirming that marquee acts still hold strong appeal. Attendees voiced mixed reactions attributing the dip to increased single-day ticket prices, fewer international visitors, and shorter onsite stays.
On the bright side, many fans enjoyed the less congested atmosphere, citing easier movement between stages and shorter waits at food vendors. The festival’s culinary scene remained a highlight: popular healthy options like blackberry iced tea and creative treats such as blueberry basil sorbet received praise.
Organizers have already locked in the 2026 festival dates — April 23–26 and April 30–May 3 — sticking with the two four-day weekend format. With attendance waning, the festival faces pressure to refine pricing, diversify programming, and enhance amenities to recapture and grow its audience base.
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Source: r/jazzfest