Jazz Fest Survival Tips:

It’s the last weekend of Jazz Fest, and if you’re local you already know the drill by now, but just in case you are visiting, and this is your first Jazz Fest experience no worries, I’ve got you covered.Below are are some essential tips for surviving the Fest.

1. Be prepared...for the weather
NOLA weather can be a bit unpredictable. One day it's sunny and beautiful, the next day you are preparing for the great flood. Friday and Sunday are looking pretty good for us festers so bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. There are no trees in site to help protect your beautiful skin, so you want to make sure to protect it. A hat will help you protect your face. I would also bring a little portable fan to help you stay cool. With that sun beaming on you, it can get hot. Now if you're going on Saturday, you might want to pack an umbrella, poncho and some rain boots. There's rain in the forecast. Told you NOLA weather is all over the place!

2. Transportation
I'm a big fan of Uber or Lyft. Festival traffic is no joke and looking for a parking spot will make you rethink your life. I'm not saying it's impossible to find parking on the street or even in a nearby lot (you will probably pay 20 or 30 bucks to park in a lot) I'm just saying why waste time driving around when you can hop in an Uber and get dropped off steps away from the entrance. 

3. Dress Smart
It's a festival, not a fashion show. I swear every year I'm scratching my head because at some point during the day I will see a group of girls dressed in heels. The fest is held at the fairground, outside, in the grass and dirt. So, dressing in your heels isn't the smartest fashion choice. Be comfortable and cute it's hot out there! Wear some tennis you don't mind getting a little dusty. 

4. Stuff your Face!
You came here to hear some great music, but let's be honest, you came to eat and drink! Being at the fest for the first time can be a bit overwhelming. You will walk in the fest look around and say where in the hell do I start. Lol, There are soooooo many wonderful food vendors to try, and honestly, you can't go wrong with any, but to help you out, I put together a nice little list of some of my favs. Hopefully, this will help you out. There are ATMs all around, but I suggest you bring cash to avoid the ATM fees. Again make sure you eat and stay hydrated. It can get hot out there and ain't nobody trying to call the paramedics because you passed out! 

5. Have FUN!
Jazzfest is one of those festivals where you feel free. You are in the sun with people dancing to the music while eating fantastic food. It's a festival where everyone is out there for the same reason, to have fun. So grab your chair (grab one from Walgreens or the Dollar Store) a blanket and your best festival buddy and enjoy the day. 

One more tip: Don't be afraid to walk around the neighborhood around the fest, there are a ton of great little neighborhood bars with people dancing and enjoying themselves. And you are bound to come across a brass band or a mardi gras Indian roaming around. 

Hope these tips help! I would love to see your pics, make sure you use #traceyknows so I can see your festival pics!