Jazz was born in New Orleans about 100 years ago, but its roots can be found in the musical traditions of both Africa and Europe. In fact, some people say that jazz is a union of African and European music. At the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival “Jazz Fest” every genre of Americana music is represented--blues, R&B, gospel, Cajun, zydeco, Afro-Caribbean, folk, Latin, rock, rap, country, and bluegrass. And, of course, there is lots of jazz, both contemporary and traditional.
The festival is a celebration of New Orleans’s unique and recognizable culture; the food choices are endless, but you are mostly surrounded with Cajun specialties. The vendors are from area restaurant and serve such favorites as shrimp po boys, cochon de laits, crawfish Monica, Boudin balls, and mango freezes.
Artists bring their works to display and sell. The Congo Square African Marketplace contains pieces from local, national, and international artisans, and has the atmosphere of a bustling bazar. Many of the artisans utilize ancient crafting techniques. In the Contemporary Crafts area, there was handmade clothing, leather goods, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments, and visitors could watch demonstrations of metal, painting, pottery, and fiber works. Lastly, the Louisiana Marketplace contains baskets.