NEW ORLEANS (June 24, 2025) – French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) proudly announces the 25th anniversary of Satchmo SummerFest presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF). This milestone celebration of New Orleans’ most beloved musical icon, Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, will take place August 2–3, 2025, at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Since its founding in 2001 to commemorate the centennial of Armstrong’s birth, the festival has grown into a cherished summer tradition celebrating the enduring impact of Satchmo’s life, legacy, and unmistakable sound.
This silver anniversary edition of the festival will feature two full days of music across multiple stages, thought-provoking conversations with Satchmo scholars, and a flavorful culinary lineup, with everything free and open to the public, thanks to continued support from sponsors and community partners like New Orleans & Company.
“As we mark 25 years, this milestone is more than a celebration—it’s a heartfelt homage to Louis Armstrong, his musical legacy, and the traditions and community that have gathered year after year to honor him,” said Emily Madero, President & CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “This year’s lineup not only pays tribute to Armstrong’s timeless influence but also celebrates the artists who carry his spirit forward.
“Satchmo SummerFest exemplifies New Orleans’ enduring commitment to uplifting our local artists and culture bearers,” said Lisa Alexis, President of the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF). “As we mark its 25th anniversary, we are honored to support a festival that not only celebrates the legacy of Louis Armstrong but also embodies the heartbeat of our city—our music, our people, and the vibrant cultural traditions that continue to inspire the world.”
Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, the official destination sales and marketing organization for the New Orleans tourism industry said, “Kicking off the month of August, Satchmo SummerFest is the perfect opportunity for Louisiana residents and regional visitors to rediscover the magic of New Orleans’ music, food and culture this summer, while staying close to home. New Orleans & Company is a proud partner in helping keep the Satchmo Summer Fest free and accessible to all. We hope that Satchmo festival-goers will stay overnight in a beautiful French Quarter or downtown hotel, experience Museum Month, and enjoy a delicious COOLinary meal. It’s all part of what makes New Orleans one of the most remarkable, unique and welcoming cities in the world.”
A Quarter Century of Sound: Diverse Musical Acts Take the Stage
Celebrating 25 years of music, memories, and New Orleans culture, Satchmo SummerFest returns with a weekend lineup reflecting jazz’s spirit and evolution in the city where it all began. From the genre’s traditional roots to contemporary sounds, this milestone year honors Louis Armstrong’s legacy with more than 25 performances across a wide range of musical styles.
Festivalgoers can expect a rich mix of traditional jazz, brass and marching bands, funk, R&B, and jazz fusion, all performed by the city’s most beloved artists and rising talent. Two outdoor tented stages—the Fidelity Bank Stage and the Delta Utilities Stage—will feature a dynamic blend of fan favorites and exciting new acts.
Shamarr Allen will return to Satchmo SummerFest for the first time since 2017, and his set will feature a guest appearance by Cyril Neville. The Gallatin Street Records Piano Sessions, sponsored by the New Orleans Jazz Museum, also return by popular demand, offering intimate indoor sets that blend musical mastery with the Museum’s current exhibits. This year’s sessions also include Ricky Riccardi, an acclaimed Armstrong biographer and now a two-time Grammy winner. Riccardi will make a rare appearance on piano, joined by legendary trumpeter Wendell Brunious.
Whether dancing outdoors or listening indoors, attendees can expect a soundtrack as bold, joyful, and unforgettable as Satchmo himself.
Debut Performaces |
Returning Performances |
| Shamarr Allen with special guest Cyril Neville | Kermit Ruffins’ tribute to Louis Armstrong |
| Alicia Renee (aka Blue Eyes) ft. Z2 | James Andrews & the Sons of Satchmo |
| Trombone Talk tribute to Kid Ory and more | Jelly Joseph |
| Kyle Roussel’s Church of New Orleans ft. Erica Falls and Quiana Lynell | The Original Pinettes Brass Band |
| Lilli Lewis | John Boutté |
| Young Fellaz Brass Band | Ricky Riccardi & Wendell Brunious |
And more!
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future: Conversations on the Satchmo Legacy Stage in Memory of Joni Berry
As part of this year’s 25th-anniversary celebration, Satchmo SummerFest proudly presents additional cultural programming with the Satchmo Legacy Stage in Memory of Joni Berry—a space dedicated to preserving and exploring the life, times, and enduring impact of Louis Armstrong through conversations, scholarship, and storytelling.
This year’s speaker lineup features a range of compelling voices who will shed light on Armstrong’s artistic influence, historical significance, and cultural resonance. Dr. Robert S. Mikell will examine Armstrong’s presence in film, tracing his legacy as a pioneering jazz musician and Hollywood performer. James Andrews and Kermit Ruffins join Donna Poniatowski Sims to discuss the deep ties between Armstrong and today’s New Orleans musicians. Joseph Darensbourg, nephew of famed clarinetist Joe Darensbourg, partners with WWOZ’s Sally Young to present an intimate session honoring his uncle’s legacy as a member of Louis Armstrong & His All-Stars. Their talk will include rare photographs, personal memorabilia, and music from Joseph’s private collection.
Author Sam Irwin offers a lecture titled You Rascal, You: Louis Armstrong’s Hidden Transcripts, exploring the layered meanings behind Armstrong’s ironic dedication of (I’ll Be Glad When You’re Dead) You Rascal, You to the Memphis Police in 1931, contrasted with a chilling true crime incident involving the same song later that year in Louisiana. Together, these sessions invite festivalgoers to engage more deeply with Armstrong’s story and the wide cultural ripples of his legacy.
Visit satchmosummerfest.org for more details.
Flavors that Move: Bold Bites with a Side of Boogie
The 25th annual Satchmo SummerFest invites festivalgoers to savor the sounds of jazz alongside the bold, diverse flavors that define New Orleans. This year’s culinary lineup features a mouthwatering mix of beloved local restaurants and rising food talent, offering something for every palate—from Caribbean spice to soul food staples to Satchmo’s favorites.
14 Parishes brings a taste of the islands to the French Quarter with their signature jerk chicken and jerk pork, served alongside sweet plantains and “festival”—a fried dough favorite. Café Dauphine, a longtime community favorite, will serve up a Red Beans and Rice Bowl inspired by the flavors Louis Armstrong loved, plus crowd-pleasing Cajun seafood egg rolls packed with crawfish, shrimp, and cabbage. Their fried green tomatoes topped with shrimp remoulade deliver classic Southern comfort with a flavorful twist.
Festivalgoers looking to cool down can stop by Plum St. Snoballs, offering icy treats in a rainbow of flavors, including vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free options. Classic cream flavors and sweetened condensed milk are also available for those who want to indulge.
By popular demand, Southerns will dish out their fried chicken and fried fish sandwiches. Plus, their cracklin provides a crispy, savory snack. Rounding out the food experience are Nori Guys, offering crab and shrimp wonton nachos and sushi tacos, and Mrs. Wheat’s Louisiana Meat Pies, serving up spicy Cajun meat and seafood pies with optional add-ons like curly fries and jambalaya.
This year, festival-goers can enjoy double the shade with two Folgers Cafés, located near each of the festival’s culinary areas. Refreshments will also be available from this year’s beverage providers, Jack Daniel’s, Abita Brewing Company, White Claw Vodka, and Caymus Vineyards Wine, with non-alcoholic options provided by Pepsi.
Whether attendees are craving spice or looking for something cool, Satchmo SummerFest’s culinary experience celebrates flavor as vibrant as the music.
Satchmo Salute Parade: An Anniversary Second-Line Celebration Under the Oaks
Presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF)
A signature moment of the 25th-anniversary celebration, the Satchmo Salute Parade brings together the spirit of New Orleans, its people, and its cultural traditions in a vibrant second-line procession. On Sunday, August 3, the parade will be led by the Treme Brass Band, beginning at 11:15 AM outside St. Augustine Church in the historic Treme neighborhood—the very church Louis Armstrong attended as a child.
Immediately following the St. Augustine Church Jazz Mass at 10 AM on Sunday, the procession will wind through the shady oak trees along Esplanade Avenue. The event will culminate at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, where the final day of Satchmo SummerFest will officially begin. This joyful tribute honors Armstrong’s roots while celebrating the enduring traditions of second-line culture.
The parade will feature a dynamic lineup of New Orleans cultural groups, including Shaka Zulu on Stilts, Treme Million Dollar Baby Dolls, Zulu Steppers, Al Harris Brass Band, Mahogany Blue Baby Dolls, Sudan Social Aid and Pleasure Club, Big Six Brass Band, TBC Brass Band, Sporty’s Brass Band, and Spirit of the Fi Yi Yi. Together, they bring energy and pageantry to this moving tribute to Satchmo’s legacy.
In the spirit of classic summer style, participants and spectators alike are encouraged to wear linen and seersucker attire—a nod to seasonal tradition and a way to stay cool amid the festivities. The Satchmo Salute Parade serves as a cultural procession and a citywide celebration of one of New Orleans’ most influential sons.
Additional Festival Highlights
Roots of Music Satchmo Soundoff presented by Fidelity Bank | Saturday
This year’s festivities will kick off with a high-energy performance by some of New Orleans’ most promising young musicians. The Roots of Music Satchmo Soundoff, presented by Fidelity Bank, begins at 11:30 AM on Saturday in front of the Fidelity Bank Stage alongside Barracks Street.
Chill at the Fest, Powered by Entergy | Saturday & Sunday
To help guests stay cool throughout the weekend, Entergy New Orleans returns as the sponsor of the popular Chill at the Fest amenities. Complimentary neck chillers and misting fans will be available across the festival grounds on both days.
Satchmo SummerFest Jazz Mass | Sunday
A beloved tradition, the Jazz Mass will take place at 10 AM on Sunday at St. Augustine Church in Treme, with musical accompaniment by the Treme Brass Band. Due to ongoing renovations, this year’s service will be held in the Parish Hall, with limited seating. For wider accessibility, the mass will also be live-streamed at Facebook.com/saintaugchurch.
Setting the Standard for Sustainable Festivals
French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) continues its commitment to environmental stewardship with the return of the Geauxing Green initiative for a fifth consecutive year. Geauxing Green has become an integral part of the organization’s overall mission and is designed to promote responsible waste management and sustainable event practices.
At Satchmo SummerFest 2024, the Geauxing Green program successfully diverted 61% of waste from landfills through recycling, composting, and other responsible practices. By reducing landfill waste, we protect Louisiana’s unique environment and waterways from debris and pollution. Onsite, the Green Team will be available to help attendees make environmentally conscious choices and participate in the festival’s ongoing sustainability goals.
Support for the Geauxing Green initiative continues to grow. The RosaMary Foundation has renewed its commitment through 2026, ensuring long-term support for waste diversion efforts and eco-conscious programming at FQFI’s cultural events. In 2025, major support was provided for the first time by the Gulf of America Alliance, with funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office for Coastal Management.
Volunteer for the 25th Anniversary of Satchmo SummerFest
Be part of the celebration! Individuals and groups are invited to volunteer for this year’s special anniversary festival. From helping with merchandise and beverage booths to assisting at the Jazz Mass or joining the Green Team, volunteers play a vital role in making the event successful.
Sign up for shifts beginning June 26 at satchmosummerfest.org/volunteer. Volunteers receive a commemorative T-shirt, merchandise, and beverage credits, entries into special merchandise raffles, and more. Ages 16+ welcome (21+ for alcohol service).
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Community Partners
For over 40 years, French Quarter Festivals, Inc. has been proud to provide high-quality community events that are accessible to all. The organization relies heavily on the contributions of sponsors and partners and beverage and merchandise sales to support the festival. Sponsors for this year’s festival include:
New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund (NOTCF), New Orleans & Company, Fidelity Bank, Delta Utilities, Friend of Fest, Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation, Omni Royal Orleans, WWL-Louisiana, Entergy New Orleans, The Folgers Coffee Company, The Eugenie and Joseph Jones Family Foundation, LCMC Health, Brown-Forman, Jack Daniels, el Jimador Tequila, Korbel California Champagne, Abita Brewing Company, Pepsi, French Market Corporation, New Orleans Jazz Museum, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, JAX Brewery Parking Lots and The Berger Company, Music Performance Trust Fund and American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, The Helis Foundation, T-Mobile, Danny & Alana Wolfe, Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, Caymus Vineyards, Emmolo, Sea Sun Wines, White Claw Vodka, Renaissance Publishing, Nola.com, Clarion Herald, and WGSO
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Happy Birthday, Satchmo!
Satchmo SummerFest is scheduled annually to coincide with Louis Armstrong’s birthday on August 4. The first festival took place on what would have been his 100th birthday, the same year the New Orleans airport was renamed Louis Armstrong International Airport.
The artist often stated in public interviews that he was born on July 4, 1900 (Independence Day), a date noted in many biographies. Armstrong died in 1971, and his true birthdate, August 4, 1901, was not discovered until the mid-1980s. Louis Armstrong was raised in a poor section of New Orleans known as “Jane Alley.”
Throughout his career, he entertained millions, from heads of state and royalty to the neighborhood kids on his stoop in Corona, New York. Despite his fame, he lived a simple life in a working-class neighborhood. The man known worldwide as “Satchmo,” short for Satchelmouth, was widely recognized as a founding father of jazz – a unique American art form. In 1932, Melody Maker magazine editor Percy Brooks greeted Armstrong in London with Hello, Satchmo! and the nickname stuck. His influence as an artist and cultural icon is universal, unmatched, and alive today.
About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.
Satchmo SummerFest is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that also produces French Quarter Festival and Holidays New Orleans Style in December.
FQFI promotes the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information on all FQFI festivals and events, visit www.fqfi.org.