Summertime in New Orleans is all about staying cool, and seeing live music is a great way to do just that. Enjoy concerts and festivals throughout the month of July featuring both local and nationally recognized artists. Check out our top picks for live music this July in New Orleans below. 

ESSENCE Festival of Culture  

This July 5-7 the ESSENCE Festival of Culture returns to New Orleans. Celebrating 30 years of festival, the evening concert lineup includes Janet Jackson, Usher, Birdman presents: 30 years of Cash Money Millionaires, Frankie Beverly & MAZE, and countless others, as well as surprise artists and comedians, all at the Caesars Superdome. Oh, and don’t forget to show some love to our Black-owned businesses while you’re in town. Check out our Ultimate Guide to Essence Fest here. Single day tickets start at $85, plus fees. 

Tipitina’s Free Fridays  

Tipitina’s Free Fridays summer concert series is back and better than ever. On Fridays through August 30, enjoy free concerts from a rotating list of local performers. This July, enjoy Sierra Green and the Giants + Sporty's Brass Band (July 5), Naughty Professor + Whisper Party! (July 12), Honey Island Swamp Band + Renée Gros & Tiago Guy (July 19), and Erica Falls & Vintage Soul + Zita (July 26). 

Ogden After Hours 

On Thursday, July 18, head to the Ogden Museum of Southern Art for Ogden After Hours featuring live music from New Orleans native Dave Lemon. There will also be a food pop-up, cash bar, and activities for children. Tickets are $15. 

Iron & Wine: Light Verse 2024 Tour @ The Orpheum 

The American folk musician known as Iron & Wine stop at the Orpheum Theater on tour this July 31. The opening act is Rosali. Tickets start at $39. 

Colombia NOLA Fest @ The Broadside 

Enjoy a celebration of Colombian culture with this event at The Broadside on July 20. Brayan Caceres, Los Cumbia Stars, and Rumba Buena will perform. Presale tickets are $38. 

Fourth of July concerts 

There are plenty of ways to celebrate the Fourth of July in New Orleans, and several events feature live music. Happy 3rd of July at City Park is a free event with live music from the Marine Forces Reserve Band on July 3. On July 4, head down to the riverfront for Go Fourth on the River. You can enjoy live music from James Andrews and the Crescent City All Stars and others before the 9 p.m. fireworks show. Crescent Park will also have live music in the evening. Find our guide to the holiday here. 

For even more music, visit the WWOZ LiveWire Music Calendar.