Coming Soon!!!
Laissez les bons temps rouler, music lovers! It’s that time of year when New Orleans swings, strums, and syncopates its way into musical bliss with the Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival, happening March 17-23, 2025. If you know a thing or two about jazz history, then you know Danny Barker wasn’t just any musician—he was the musical maestro who put the banjo and guitar on the map in jazz. And this festival? Oh honey, it’s a whole vibe, bringing together world-class musicians, second-line parades, live performances, and storytelling sessions—all set in the gorgeous New Orleans Jazz Museum.
Now, let’s get down to business. If you’re heading to town for this week-long jam session (which you absolutely should), then you’ll need a prime spot to stay. Might I suggest a charming little inn that just happens to be one block outside the French Quarter? That’s right, darlings—the New Orleans Guest House is your home base for all things music, mischief, and mouthwatering Creole cuisine. With the Jazz Museum just a short walk away, you can stumble home easily after a day filled with toe-tapping performances (and perhaps a few too many Sazeracs). And if your feet are feeling fancy, hop on the streetcar visible from our front door and whisk yourself off to any hotspot in the city.
Why This Festival is a Must-See
Let’s talk talent. This festival gathers some of the finest banjo pickers and guitar slingers in the game, blending traditional jazz, blues, and some of that irresistible New Orleans funk. From intimate club performances to grand stage showcases, this lineup is stacked. Want to get in on the action? The festival also offers workshops, panel discussions, and masterclasses where you can learn from the legends themselves.
Think you know how to play the banjo? Step into a masterclass and prepare to be humbled.
Think you don’t know how to play the banjo? By the end of this festival, you just might be inspired to pick one up.
Check out the full lineup of performers and daily schedules at www.neworleans.com.
Beyond the Banjo: Food, Fun & French Quarter Shenanigans
Now, as much as we love a good banjo breakdown, let’s not forget one important thing—this is New Orleans. That means between shows, you’ll be knee-deep in beignets, po’boys, chargrilled oysters, and all the gumbo your little heart desires. Luckily, our inn is steps away from the French Quarter, which means you have instant access to some of the best food and drink in the city.
Want to keep the party going after the festival performances? Oh honey, the French Quarter doesn’t do “quiet nights in.” Take a stroll down Bourbon Street, hit up Frenchmen Street for live music, or swing by Cane & Table for an expertly crafted cocktail.
And if you’re looking for a real adventure, might I suggest hopping on that streetcar right outside our front door? It’ll take you to the Garden District, Mid-City, and even out to City Park, so you can explore beyond the Quarter and get the full New Orleans experience.
Book Now & Stay a While!
Listen, a festival this good deserves more than just a quick weekend visit. Plan ahead and book a long stay, so you can catch all the daily performances, eat your weight in Cajun food, and dive headfirst into New Orleans’ legendary nightlife.
At the New Orleans Guest House, we keep it simple—clean, affordable accommodations and a warm, welcoming staff who love nothing more than making sure our guests have the time of their lives. So grab your festival tickets, pack your dancing shoes, and get ready for a week of strumming, swinging, and second-lining in the greatest city on earth.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ACCOMMODATIONS JUST CALL US DIRECTLY AT 504.566.1177 OR 1.800.562.1177. YOU MAY ALSO VISIT US ONLINE AT neworleansguest.house.
See you in March—bring your appetite for jazz, jambalaya, and a damn good time!