NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Jazz Fest 2026 wrapped Sunday with one final day of sunshine, food and music.
Organizers expected about 400,000 to attend, although the final tally won’t be in for a few days.
Earth, Wind and Fire performed on the Congo Stage, and Trombone Shorty closed out the Festival Stage for the final performances of Jazz Fest 2026.
RELATED STORY: Massive crowds pack Jazz Fest on second Saturday
“My favorite part of Jazz Fest is the music,” said Trina Joseph, from New Orleans.
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One change this year was Saturday’s sellout. Ramon Gonzales, from New Orleans, said he appreciates the added crowd control.
“I think the spirit of it is great. It does get a little crowded – extremely crowded. I hate to say this but yesterday is the first time I heard that it was sold out and it really was packed,” Gonzales said. “So they’re doing the right thing and I understand they’re doing it out of safety.”
Keith Parker, from New Orleans, said the food is a major draw.
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“Of course! The food is wonderful. Listen you got to test the food even though if you’re from here you gotta get more of the food, that’s what you got to do baby,” Parker said.
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The 2027 lineup is still in the making. Fans are already pitching their favorites.
“Bring Anita Baker back. Bring me a Ludacris in the building. Get me something like that. I like the older acts as well, and I can mix it with the new,” Parker said.
Cherlena Adams, from New Orleans, had another request.
“I just love the food, and of course, the daquaris. They should have more daquari shops,” Adams said.
Up to 90 percent of performances at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival are with local musicians, according to organizers. To apply for a spot on stage next year, applications open June 1.
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