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As the official site of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, as well as the legendary birthplace of jazz, the Big Easy beckons music lovers from around the world every spring. Now in its 39th year, the 2008 jazz blowout—known locally as the Jazz Fest—is slated to run from April 25-27 and May 1-4. This festive event celebrates the music and culture of Louisiana as more than 400,000 visitors converge on New Orleans for a huge jazz party, complete with second line parades, food, and lots of live entertainment.

The Basics
The Jazz Fest takes place at the Fair Grounds Race Course, which is located 10 minutes from the French Quarter. This massive venue features three main stages and eight tents, all with continuous music from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Music ranges from jazz, blues, and zydeco to folk, rock, and rap. There’s even a kid’s tent for the little ones. The year’s headliners include Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Jimmy Buffett, Sheryl Crow, and the Neville Brothers. As more musicians stream into New Orleans, you’re sure to find more street performers in the French Quarter. In short, everywhere you look, there’s music.

When you get hungry, you can whet your appetite at one of the two large food areas, where you’ll have your choice of everything from crawfish and alligator to vegetarian plates and even the standard burgers and brews. Save some time to browse the crafts area, with artisans from around the world demonstrating and selling their wares. All in all, it’s a very full day.