Day 1 of the 2025 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival delivered a powerhouse mix of hometown legends, global grooves, and standout festival eats.
Music Highlights:
- Dave Jordan finally claimed his main stage spotlight after 25 years, captivating the crowd with a soulful set.
- Rising star LeTraniump impressed with a fresh take on New Orleans jazz fusion.
- Sabine McCalla brought a unique vocal style that had attendees hooked.
- Local hero Jon Cleary reminded fans to celebrate the city’s deep musical roots.
- International flair came courtesy of Mexican groups Son del Coamil and El Dusty & The Homie.
- The Goose debuted new tunes, including fan-favorite “Give It Time.”
- Afrobeat legend Seun Kuti ignited the crowd with fiery energy.
- The day climaxed with John Fogerty’s champagne toast and a stirring rendition of “Proud Mary.”
Culinary Standouts:
- The crawfish strüdel was crowned the day’s best dish, a perfect creamy and cheesy crusted delight.
- Chris’s chicken cracklings quickly became a new festival snack obsession.
- The iconic soft shell crab po’boy earned praise for its flawless frying and sauce combo.
- Other mouthwatering picks included shrimp and crab ravigote and the indulgent chocolate-stuffed beignet.
- Anticipation builds for Day 2’s Haitian crab macaroni.
Other Notes:
- The high-energy Flow Tribe and soulful Waylon Thibodaux added extra magic to the lineup.
- A jazz master class with Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap offered a rare treat for deep dives into jazz artistry.
With this stellar start, Jazz Fest’s first weekend sets the tone for an unforgettable celebration of music, food, and New Orleans spirit.
Source: r/jazzfest