French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is marking the 26th anniversary of Satchmo SummerFest, a free festival celebrating the life and legacy of Louis Armstrong. The event is presented by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation.
This year’s festival returns to the New Orleans Jazz Museum on August 1 and 2, 2026. It features two days of live music across multiple stages, along with discussions led by Armstrong scholars and a range of cultural experiences.
Satchmo SummerFest was founded in 2001 to mark the centennial of Armstrong’s birth. Since then, it has grown into one of New Orleans’ most cherished traditions, honouring the musician widely regarded as one of the city’s most iconic ambassadors.
“Jazz was born in New Orleans, and this city is proof of what Louis Armstrong has given to the world,” said Emily Madero, President and CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “This year’s lineup showcases the living legacy of Armstrong’s influence, featuring artists who were inspired by his spirit of innovation and excellence.”
The 2026 lineup includes debut performances from Sir Chantz Powell & The Sound Of Funk (S.O.F.), Jenna McSwain and Linda Aubert. They will perform alongside returning favourites including Kermit Ruffins, John Boutté, The Original Pinettes Brass Band and Preservation Brass.
Attendees can dance under tented outdoor stages or take in intimate piano performances on the second floor of the Jazz Museum. Organisers say the programme is designed to reflect the bold, joyful spirit of Armstrong’s music.
“Satchmo SummerFest has always been more than a festival. It is a celebration of where jazz comes from and the city that gave it to the world,” said Lisa Alexis, President of the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation. “Satchmo SummerFest enters its 26th year, we are proud to support an event that continues to bring world-class music to the streets of New Orleans, honor Armstrong’s extraordinary legacy, and energize our city during the summer season he loved most.”
The festival remains free and open to the public, continuing its mission of making world-class jazz accessible to locals and visitors alike. Organisers say the event also plays a role in sustaining New Orleans’ tourism appeal during the summer months, drawing music fans to the city’s historic Jazz Museum and surrounding French Quarter.
More information on the schedule and participating artists is available at satchmosummerfest.org.
