Live music is 24/7 in New Orleans, but we’ve cherry-picked a few can’t-miss shows for the month ahead. It’s officially Mardi Gras season, with Mardi Gras Day falling on February 17, and there are plenty of shows throughout the city. Check out the best concerts and performances below.

Mardi Gras parades

The best place to hear live music this month is on the parade route! Bands made up of all ages and instruments will be front and center marching down the city streets in what we call “the greatest free show on Earth.” Check out the parade schedule here for more information. In addition to that, Mardi Gras balls are in full swing, with lots of live music at events like Shorty Gras on February 7 featuring Diplo, Big Freedia, New Breed Brass Band, and more. 

Tipitina’s Mardi Gras

Tipitina’s Mardi Gras lineup is like nothing else! Catch shows on February 1, 6, and daily from February 11-17. Performers include Galactic ft. Jelly Jospeh, Freedia Gras ft. Big Freedia, Dumpstaphunk, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, and a special Mardi Gras Morning Sunrise Set at 5 a.m. featuring Big Chief Juan Pardo & the Golden Comanches with Billy Iuso. Find the full schedule here.

The Rumble ft. Big Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr.
Image courtesy of Good Measure
The Rumble ft. Big Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr.

Valentine's Day Post-Endymion Masquerade Party featuring The Rumble

Head to Good Measure, just one block off the Endymion parade route, for a special live performance by The Rumble, led by Big Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr. of the Young Eagles Black Masking Indian tribe. The event starts at 11 p.m. Tickets for GA are $22, plus taxes and fees, includes Mardi Gras mask. Receive $10 entry with proof of purchase from Brutto Americano, Seaworthy, or Salon Salon, just show your receipt at the door.

Zulu Lundi Gras Fest

Catch a slew of DJs, brass bands, and performers at the Zulu Lundi Gras Fest on February 16. The fest celebrates the Krewe of Zulu royalty and takes place at Woldenberg Park from 10 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. The Krewe of Zulu parades on Mardi Gras Day, February 17 at 8 a.m.

Ruthie Foster (show 1, show 2)

Catch GRAMMY® Award-Winning Ruthie Foster at the Jazz & Blues Market from February 27-28. Described by NPR as a "vocal powerhouse," Foster is fresh off a win at the 2025 GRAMMY® Awards for Best Contemporary Blues Album. Tickets are $31+.