Experience the Flavor: Dive into Crawfish Delights at New Orleans’ Iconic Music Festival (No Burgers Here!)

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival starts this Thursday, showcasing the city’s vibrant music and food scene over the next two weeks. This festival has been a staple since 1970, celebrating jazz, blues, gospel, and more. It attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and has grown to include big names like Pearl Jam and Lenny Kravitz, all while honoring local talent.

Quint Davis, the festival’s producer, shared, “We aimed to reflect New Orleans to the world, and now it’s as crucial to our culture as Mardi Gras.” He invites everyone to come hungry, as the festival also highlights the city’s amazing food.

Food is a big draw at the festival, according to Davis. Many attendees prioritize filling their plates with authentic Cajun and Creole dishes. From flavorful gumbo to alligator sausage, the offerings celebrate New Orleans’ culinary delights. Michelle Nugent, the festival’s food director, noted that most of the 70 vendors have been around for decades, perfecting their recipes. “You won’t find this menu anywhere else,” she emphasized. “Everything is handmade and home-cooked.”

For a sweet treat, visitors flock to Loretta’s Pralines, run by Robert Harrison III. He remembers how his mother combined pralines with beignets, creating a local legend. “It’s something you have to love to do,” he said, mentioning the thousands of pralines prepared for the event.

Cajun specialties like the Cochon de Lait Po Boy are also must-tries. Shayne Brunet from Walker’s Southern Style BBQ shared how they smoke suckling pig overnight, serving it on fresh French bread with coleslaw and their secret sauce. “You won’t find burgers or pizzas here,” said John Caluda, who pioneered the famed crawfish strudel. This dish surprises festival-goers with its unique twist and has become a staple.

Chef Pierre Hilzim’s “Crawfish Monica” also remains popular, featuring creamy pasta with crawfish. Hilzim shared that he needs nearly two million crawfish to satisfy hungry guests. “To have a dish recognized in this city is humbling,” he said.

This year’s lineup features famous artists like Pearl Jam, Lenny Kravitz, Dave Matthews Band, and local icons such as Lil Wayne and Trombone Shorty. The festival’s poster features the local band Tank and the Bangas, who won a Grammy this year. Lead singer Tarriona “Tank” Ball recalls her early days at the festival with her school choir. “Performing here feels magical,” she said, excited to share the spotlight with family and friends in the crowd.

As attendees soak in the music and indulge in the unique culinary offerings, many also embrace the festival’s community spirit. It’s a gathering that not only showcases talent but also reconnects people with their roots, making it an essential part of New Orleans culture.

To learn more about the festival, visit the official website for details on performances and food vendors as the event unfolds.

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