Crowds filled the Fairgrounds as the 46th annual New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival started its annual seven days of festing.
From a homegrown showcase for local talent, Jazz Fest has grown to include top national pop stars (which the festival officially calls “guest artists") alongside New Orleans' favorite jazz, blues, rock, gospel, hip hop, brass band and other talent. The nonprofit Jazz and Heritage Foundation has produced the festival in partnership with international production company AEG since 2004.
Despite opening up to more mainstream acts, corporate sponsors, and more national and international visitors, Jazz Fest retains an almost sacred aura of tradition. WWNO caught some of the people who line up to buy posters and Bayou Wear shirts as soon as the festival gates open.