Satchmo SummerFest

What:

A celebration of the Jazz of New Orleans native, Louis Armstrong, the irrepressible trumpeter who carried Satchmo as one of several widely-used nicknames. Most events are free to the public. There's music of course on several stages.

Where and When:

The Satchmo Summerfest is in the French Quarter. In 2009 there will be three stages set up. Two on the grounds of the Old U.S. Mint at the edge of the French Quarter on Esplande Ave. The other stage will be on the third floor of the Mint. The festival is always the first weekend in August. In 2009 the festival is July 30-Aug 2.

Fun for the Kids:

Louis Armstrong was a small boy when he first held a trumpet, so the kids are included in the festival. There are special events, and a popular one with kids is decorating those "second line" umbrellas, as well as many other crafts. There's alto music and participatory dance and drumming events to help youngsters join the excitement themselves. This year there will be a new Armstrong on Film area set up on the second floor of the old U.S. Mint with Armstrong cartoons and family movies.

Strut Your Stuff:

On Friday, guests purchase armbands for admission to all the participating clubs, and walk - or, that is, strut - from one to the next while marching brass bands, and the city’s permissive open-container policy keeps the upbeat party atmosphere going outside. (The cost is $25.00 for this event.) Get your tickets to the Strut.

Of Course There's Food:

Louis Armstrong often ended his letters and notes with "Red beans and ricely yours," referring to one of New Orleans famous dishes, the Monday favorite, red beans and rice. In keeping with that theme, Red Bean Alley, has been set up near the stages where vending booths from local restaurants will be serving up portions of red beans and rice, along with jambalaya, crawfish cakes, gumbo and other local dishes. Some restaurants also have related menus. There will also be a special Armstrong lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe.

Special Photo Exhibit:

The Old U.S. Mint will also have a special photo exhibit of over 100 photos of famous Jazz musicians entitled, "Jam Session: America's Jazz Ambassadors Embrace the World."

Website:

For a complete schedule of events, plus a photo gallery and video clips from last year's festival, check out the event's Web site.