New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell - Contemporary Crafts 2026

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell is a joyous and spirited celebration showcasing the authentic music and heritage of Louisiana and New Orleans. Beginning in 1970 with 350 musicians entertaining a crowd half that number in Congo Square, the Festival has grown to become one of the most prestigious and well-attended in the nation, attracting hundreds of thousands of people annually. This two-weekend outdoor daytime celebration is held on the park-like infield and in the grandstand area of the historic Fair Grounds Race Course, featuring fourteen stages of music, plus art and traditional food.

The highly competitive juried Contemporary Crafts Fair, located in Heritage Square amid some of the most dynamic musical tents, will feature approximately sixty different artists each weekend. Artists exhibit and sell fine art and fine crafts including one-of-a-kind and/or limited edition works. The Festival takes place over two weekends: April 23-26 and April 30-May 3, with hours of operation from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.

Artists must submit five images (four of artwork and one of booth display) with a $35 application fee. Work must be original handmade art created by the applicant artist, consisting of one-of-a-kind and/or limited edition pieces. The application deadline is December 2, with notifications emailed January 21. Artists must be present in their assigned booth throughout the official Festival hours, and representatives may not attend in place of the contracted artist.