Live Music this August in New Orleans
Where to Hear Live Music this Month
Last Updated: Monday, July 31, 2023 11:46 AM by Lauren Saizan
Last Updated: Monday, July 31, 2023 11:46 AM by Lauren Saizan
As the summer heats up, we’re keeping it cool with live music. From festivals to free local shows to nationally touring artists, check out music highlights for the month of August below.
Celebrating the life and legacy of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, Satchmo Summerfest is a food and music fest that takes over the French Quarter every August. Expect performances from Rebirth Brass Band, Delfeayo Marsalis & The Uptown Jazz Orchestra, Kermit Ruffins in tribute to Louis Armstrong, and more. Food vendors include 14 Parishes’ jerk chicken, vegan fish plate from Beaucoup Eats, sno-balls from Plum Street Snowballs, and more. Satchmo Summerfest is August 5-6 and admission is free.
Tipitina’s Free Fridays summer concert series is back and better than ever. On Fridays from May 26 to September 1, enjoy free concerts from a rotating list of local performers, including Brass-A-Holics, Honey Island Swamp Band, Billy Iuso, Raw Deal (Tribute to Earth, Wind, & Fire) featuring Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph, plus more, for the month of August.
The Thursdays at Twilight summer concert series is a great way to enjoy City Park midweek. Held at the Pavilion of the Two Sisters, the August lineup features Ladies of Soul, Bon Operatit!, Mike Esneault Quintet Featuring Vocalist Judy Davis, Pfister Sisters, and John Fohl and Friends plus special guest Joe Krown. Admission is $15.
Catch Little Freddie King at d.b.a. on August 5. The Delta blues guitarist always puts on a good show. Tickets are $15.
American singer/songwriter Weyes Blood stops at the Joy Theater on August 23. Her sound is a blend of folk, indie, and alternative, with a cinematic, mesmerizing voice to match. Tickets start at $25 plus fees.
For even more music, visit the WWOZ LiveWire Music Calendar.
Lauren Saizan is a New Orleans native raised in the Gentilly neighborhood. In addition to being the editorial and online content manager for New Orleans & Company, she is also a member of Mélange Dance Company. Lauren has performed professionally in many venues across the city, including the Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, the New Orleans Museum of Art, Longue Vue House & Gardens, and Marigny Opera House. When not writing or dancing, she can be spotted sipping the Blue Eyes tea at French Truck, attending a concert downtown, or visiting a local library.