2026 Jazz & Heritage Gala Announcement

NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES REGGAE, SOUL, AND JAMAICAN CULTURE WITH STAR‑STUDDED GALA LINEUP INSPIRED BY GLOBAL ROOTS

Gala continues the Foundation’s commitment to music education that honors the rich heritage of New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, LA (March 23, 2026) – The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation is proud to announce its stellar entertainment lineup for the 2026 Jazz & Heritage Gala, the official kickoff celebration for the global phenomenon, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell. This year’s Gala embraces the theme: “From Kingston to Congo Square: One Love, One Music, One People,” honoring the shared rhythms, cultural ties, and musical traditions that connect Jamaica and New Orleans. For more information, visit www.jazzandheritagegala.com 

The celebrity‑filled Gala features legendary artists whose work embodies the fusion of Jamaican rhythm and New Orleans soul, including The Wailers featuring Julian Marley, and Big Sam’s Funky Nation. The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music All-Stars Featuring Deacon John, the Foundation’s signature education program, will also present a series of musical selections showcasing the young, emerging talent of New Orleans.

Gala guests will enjoy a curated culinary experience, a live auction, and additional opportunities to support the Foundation’s year‑round programs. The Jamaican‑inspired extravaganza will take place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Generations Hall, located at 310 Andrew Higgins Blvd. in New Orleans, setting the stage for eight days of world‑renowned musical performances at the 2026 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

“The Foundation is excited to host this year’s Jazz & Heritage Gala that will be an unforgettable evening of music, bringing together the energetic sounds of Reggae, Soul, and Jamaican culture to honor global musical influences that have shaped both New Orleans and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival for generations to come,” said Rachel Cousin, President of The Board of Directors.  “The annual Gala serves as one of the Foundation’s most vital fundraising activities, as we continue prioritizing critical investments in music education, cultural programming, and community‑based initiatives that support the next generation of artists.” 

The Jazz & Heritage Gala Patron Party featuring Jamaican-inspired performances by Steel Drum Orchestra begins at 6 p.m., followed by the Gala and Champion of Culture Honoree presentation from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Acclaimed journalist and media personality Lebron “LBJ” Joseph will co-emcee the event along with Cole Williams, multi-hyphenate artist and host on WWOZ 90.7FM.  

A live auction will serve as one of the evening’s most anticipated activities, allowing guests to bid on a carefully curated collection of exclusive items and once‑in‑a‑lifetime experiences. From distinctive artwork and signed memorabilia to unforgettable vacations and VIP access to premier cultural events, the auction reflects the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural richness of New Orleans and Louisiana.

Proceeds from the auction will directly support the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation’s educational programs and community initiatives, allowing guests to play an active role in preserving the city’s cultural legacy while enjoying an immersive and memorable experience. The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music, which provides free, high‑quality music instruction to nearly 300 young students across Louisiana to nurture the next generation of New Orleans musicians, is a direct benefit of the auction’s proceeds. 

Ticket packages include a Gala-only pass, or an eight-day pass to Jazz Fest that is transferable and allows for unlimited re-entry. For sponsorship opportunities and ticket purchases, visit www.jazzandheritagegala.com 

ABOUT THE HERITAGE SCHOOL OF MUSIC

The Don “Moose” Jamison Heritage School of Music proudly provides free-of-charge lessons taught by the finest musicians and educators the city has to offer, reaching approximately 300 school-aged students with dynamic music instruction and opportunity. It is the Foundation’s longest-standing educational program and has expanded to include a Beginners program, the vocal and audio production workshops. The school holds classes four days a week at the George and Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center. The state-of-the-art facility has several classrooms, a recording space, and a performance hall.

ABOUT THE NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FOUNDATION

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation is the nonprofit organization that owns the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell. The Foundation uses the proceeds from Jazz Fest, and other funds, for year-round programs in education, economic development and cultural enrichment. For more about the Foundation, visit: www.jazzandheritage.org.