Sep 23, 2021 - By Mushroom New Orleans

An Update on the NOLA Music Scene

New Orleans is still in Modified Phase Three.

New Orleans is currently in Modified Phase Three of its COVID-19 safety plan.

When attending events, all music lovers must follow guidelines for masking, social distancing, and vaccination. The precautions seem to be working. New Orleans has one of the highest rates of vaccination in Louisiana: more than 80% of residents have had at least one dose of a vaccine, and more than 70% are fully vaccinated.

Here's a look at some upcoming events -- and what guidelines music venues must follow.

The Latest Mandates

In July 2021, wearing a mask indoors once again became mandatory statewide. In August 2021, further requirements were instituted at most indoor venues in Orleans Parish and at outdoor events where more than 500 people are gathered: attendees must provide either proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test that has been conducted within the last 72 hours. Indoor venues must also have proper ventilation.

So is the New Orleans music scene open? Yes, so long as music venues are adhering to the guidelines and mandates, including the citywide indoor mask mandate that remains, regardless of vaccination status. Although masks are generally not required outdoors, wearing them is encouraged in crowded outdoor spaces.

NOLA BY NOLA Celebrates Live Music Citywide

Between October 7 and October 17, catch your favorite artists all over New Orleans during a citywide celebration of New Orleans music and culture. NOLAxNOLA is an unprecedented event made possible by the city's many iconic music venues and nightclubs in partnership with New Orleans & Company. NOLAxNOLA is taking place during the same ten-day period during which the now-canceled JazzFest was scheduled.

The organizers promise that all pandemic guidelines will be followed and that this event will revive the live music scene safely while supporting local musicians and culture bearers. They also hope that NOLAxNOLA will become an annual tradition. To see the lineup of events and venues, and to buy tickets, visit the New Orleans NOLAxNOLA website.

A Few Cancellations

A handful of Spring 2021 festivals rescheduled for this fall have been canceled. These include the French Quarter Festival, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, BUKU: Planet B, the National Fried Chicken Festival, and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience. As the city grapples with the pandemic and the aftermath of hurricane Ida, live music venues are adapting as well as they can.

Live Music Highlights Coming Up

Faubourg Oktoberfest

September 23-26

Faubourg Brewery will host the family-friendly German food and music extravaganza with bands, a beer stein-holding contest, and games for kids. And it's outdoors!

Beignet Fest (with live music at Howlin' Wolf)

September 25

The Beignet Fest was officially canceled, but a safer, DIY version will now be held on September 25. Festival organizers are asking people to visit these vendors to order festival specialties: Howlin' Wolf Den, Loretta's Authentic Pralines, Luca Eats, Ruby Slipper Café, and The Vintage New Orleans. Howlin' Wolf will host the bands that had been scheduled to play at the fest.

The Soul Rebels