How to Shop for Crafts at the New Orleans Jazz Fest

At the New Orleans Jazz Fest, people spend a lot of time at three things: the stages, the food tents, and the craft booths. All three celebrate Louisiana heritage. There’s a reason the Jazz Fest runs from morning till night. There’s a huge amount to see and do. Here’s a guide to Jazz Fest crafts.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money
• Time

1. 
    

   Check out Congo Square. True to its name, Congo Square celebrates African heritage, with African instruments and art: sculptures, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and more. Also check out the Demo Booth, where artists make art in front of you.

2. 
    

   Go to the Contemporary Crafts fair. Sure, it’s a heritage festival, but a number of contemporary artists show their wares as well—60 different artists. Features a juried competition. Located in Heritage Square.

3. 
    

   The Louisiana Marketplace is a mix of both contemporary and traditional art. The contemporary art is more traditional in flavor—using styles and materials of traditional Louisiana art.

4. 
    

   The Louisiana Folkslife Tent also crosses boundaries. It’s the most multi-cultural of any craft tent—Caribbean, African, Cajun, Native American, African American, and other art native to the area. The best part is watching artists make instruments or sculptures for Mardi Gras floats. A very popular wing of Jazz Fest crafts. Really cool stuff here.

5. 
    

   Finally, check out the Native American Village—a number of tribes showing their stuff. Check out the basket weaving. There’s also music: traditional drumming, singing, and dancing.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember much of this stuff is for sale. If you run out of cash, there are ATMs on site throughout the Fairgrounds.
• It’s all unique too, so if someone buys something you like, there may not be another. If you’re really intent on buying crafts at the Jazz Fest, get there early so you’ll have a wider choice.