NOLA Zydeco Fest Returns for its 4th Year, Celebrating Louisiana’s Rich Creole Culture

NEW ORLEANS, LA – The New Orleans Zydeco Festival (NOZF) is set to return for its fourth annual celebration on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at Mandeville Shed – Crescent Park. This vibrant event, running from 11 AM to 8 PM, promises a day filled with authentic zydeco music, Creole cuisine, and cultural experiences that bridge Southwest and Southeast Louisiana traditions.

Founded by Gabrielle Deculus and Courtney Smith to honor their great-grandfather, Creole French musician and Zydeco Pioneer Alphonse “Bois Sec” Ardoin, NOZF has quickly become a cornerstone event in New Orleans’ cultural calendar.

Event Highlights:

• Gumbo Cook-Off (11 AM – 2 PM): A new addition featuring local chefs and groups competing for a $500 cash prize
• Live Performances by Alphonse “Phonsee” Ardoin, Wayne Singleton, Dwayne Dopsie, Koray Broussard, and Rusty Metoyer
• Dance lessons between sets by zydeco dance experts, Arthur Corbin and Harold Guillory
• Dance competition with a $250 prize
• Zydeco history installation by the Southwest Louisiana Genealogy Research, Alex Genealogy
• Mechanical bull riding, face painting and more family activities
• Creole and Cajun food vendors as well as local goods and art vendors

Ticket Information:

• General Admission: $20
• VIP Lounge Access: $65 (includes 2 cocktail tickets, covered seating, and a view of the River)

The New Orleans Zydeco Foundation, established in August 2022, supports the event. The Foundation aims to develop the Ardoin homestead in Mamou, Louisiana, into a Historical Civil Rights and National Music Landmark, Zydeco History Museum, and community space for youth development programs.

“We’re thrilled to bring NOLA Zydeco Fest back for its fourth year,” says co-founder Gabrielle Deculus. “This event is not just about great music and food; it’s about preserving and celebrating the rich Creole culture that has shaped Louisiana.”

Major sponsors include New Orleans Cultural and Tourism Fund, Louisiana Office of Tourism, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, Ramona Deculus State Farm, Saint Josephine, Evamor, US Army, Creole Amour Laser Studio and more.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.nolazydecofest.com.

Media Contact:
Gabrielle Deculus
PHONE: 713-471-3117
EMAIL: gabrielle@nolazydeco.org

About NOLA Zydeco Fest: The New Orleans Zydeco Festival is an annual event that celebrates the music, food, and culture of Louisiana’s Creole community. Founded in 2021, the festival honors the legacy of zydeco pioneers while showcasing contemporary artists and cultural traditions.

About Southwest Louisiana Genealogy Research: SWLGR group works to make contributions with historical accuracy to the Creole Culture and Community by collaborating and creating content with other groups and researchers around the world.