The Crescent City is turning up the volume this weekend, and JamFest is your all-access pass to the rhythm of New Orleans. From soul-stirring gospel to riverfront rock and vibrant parades, this city never sleeps — it sings. Whether you’re here to honor heroes, catch a historic concert, or get lost in the sounds of the streets, New Orleans is serving up an unforgettable weekend from May 16 through 18.
This Weekend in New Orleans: Festivals, Forces & Frivolity
🇺🇸 A Salute to Service
We kick off the weekend with a deep nod of appreciation for the brave men and women of the Armed Forces. Special performances and community events are scheduled across the city, honoring service members past and present with the kind of musical flair only New Orleans can offer.
🎶 Mumford & Sons Launch the Railroad Revival Tour
On Saturday, folk-rock powerhouse Mumford & Sons returns to New Orleans to kick off their 2025 Railroad Revival Tour at Woldenberg Park — the same venue where they wrapped up the original tour in 2011. With the river rolling in the background and the skyline glowing in the dusk, expect a magical evening of acoustic grit, big harmonies, and roots revival.
🎭 Mardi Gras Gets Weird… Again
In true New Orleans fashion, rumors of a new Mardi Gras parade featuring camels have stirred up a mix of amusement and skepticism. Slated for January 5, just one day before the official start of Carnival season, the parade has already been flagged by a City Council member as a potential “scam.” Whether it’s legit or just another colorful chapter in NOLA lore, you can be sure people will be talking.
🎷 Tonight: What is Hip?! on JamFest — 100% NOLA Jazz
Set your speakers to swing — tonight’s episode of What is Hip?! on JamFest is all about that authentic New Orleans jazz. Broadcasting at 8PM CST, this exclusive show dives deep into Dixieland and traditional New Orleans jazz, playing the legends who shaped it and the artists keeping it alive.
From brass bands on Bourbon to smoky backroom sessions on Frenchmen Street, What is Hip?! is the soundtrack to a city that lives in rhythm. It’s the music that started it all — and it’s playing only on JamFest.
🎧 Stream it live at 8PM and listen all night long until the Morning NPR News Now
📻 Exclusively on JamFest Radio and by DJ Don Edwards — Where NOLA Lives
🍽️ Sunday Noon: Gospel Brunch — “Gospel Lunch NOLA Style”
No New Orleans weekend is complete without Sunday’s Gospel Brunch, and JamFest brings you the best of both soul and sustenance. Join us for “Gospel Lunch NOLA Style”, starting at Noon on Sunday, where music, food, and faith come together in a joyful celebration.
Whether you’re a devout believer, a casual gospel fan, or simply curious about the cultural heartbeat of New Orleans, this is your invitation to experience something deeply moving and uniquely local. Grab a plate of red beans and rice, pour your favorite drink, and let the powerful voices and stirring melodies lift your spirit.
🎼 Let the choir guide your heart — every Sunday at 12PM CST
🍛 Tune in, turn up, and taste the soul of NOLA
Your Weekend Soundtrack Starts with JamFest
From the historic sounds of jazz to the modern roots of Americana, from gospel to groove, JamFest is your go-to weekend guide for all things music and culture in New Orleans. Whether you’re on the streets, at the show, or listening from home — JamFest has you covered.
🔥 Stay loud. Stay soulful. Stay NOLA.