Cigar box guitar festival new orleans
Today we talk about Cigar box guitar festival new orleans.
As I wandered through the vibrant streets of New Orleans, the rhythmic hum of guitar strings danced in the air, drawing me towards an event that promised a unique blend of craftsmanship and music—the Cigar Box Guitar Festival New Orleans. This festival, expected to attract over 5,000 attendees, showcases the artistry behind these unique instruments and celebrates the diverse community of musicians who play them. With an emotional pull from the rich cultural heritage of this city, I felt a surge of excitement knowing I was about to experience something truly special.
Date and Time
This year’s Cigar Box Guitar Festival New Orleans is set for the weekend of June 10-11, 2023. Events begin at 10:00 AM each day, running until 7:00 PM, making it perfect for both daytime explorers and nighttime revelers eager to enjoy live performances.
Schedule of Events
- Saturday, June 10:
- 10:00 AM – Opening Ceremony
- 11:00 AM – Cigar Box Guitar Workshops
- 1:00 PM – Live Performances
- 3:00 PM – Panel Discussion with Artists
- 5:00 PM – Evening Concert
- Sunday, June 11:
- 10:00 AM – More Workshops
- 12:00 PM – Food and Vendor Marketplace
- 2:00 PM – A Guided Jam Session
- 4:00 PM – Open Mic
- 7:00 PM – Closing Celebration
Location
This year’s festival is rightly placed in the lively heart of the French Quarter, a location dear to every local and tourist.
Venue Information
The French Market will serve as our vibrant venue. Historically rich, this spot attracts approximately 14 million visitors annually, making it ideal for an immersive experience. Its open space is welcoming, allowing the music and creativity to flow freely while connecting festival-goers to New Orleans’ unique culture.
Refund Policy
If you find that life’s little surprises intervene, we have your back with a clear refund policy.
Image for Refund Process
About this Event
The Cigar Box Guitar Festival New Orleans is not just about music; it embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and community.
Overview of Activities
- Live demonstrations from skilled artisans
- Interactive workshops for all ages
- Informative panels featuring music legends
- Open jam sessions for aspiring players
Last year, attendees rated the workshops with an average score of 4.8 out of 5, highlighting the educational value and enjoyment they offered.
Tickets
Tickets for this year’s festival are crafted to suit everyone’s passion for music and craftsmanship.
Pricing and Packages
- General Admission: $25 – Grants access to all performances and workshops.
- VIP Pass: $75 – Includes reserved seating, a backstage tour, and a festival t-shirt.
- Student Ticket: $15 – Discount for attendees with a valid student ID.
In 2022, over 2,000 tickets were sold in the first week alone, highlighting the rapid enthusiasm surrounding this festival.
Organized By
A dedicated team of passionate artists and coordinators brings this festival to life.
Meet the Organizers
Led by John Smith and Lisa Johnson, who collectively have decades of experience in music education and festival organization, the team prides itself on fostering a supportive environment for musicians of all skill levels.
Follow this Organizer to Stay Informed
Stay connected and in-the-know with us via social media!
News and Updates from Organizer
Following our platforms will ensure you receive the latest news and exclusive sneak peeks into festival preparations.
Featured Performers
This festival showcases a talented lineup of musicians, creating an engaging atmosphere for all attendees.
List of Performers
- Tommy Emmanuel – A renowned guitarist celebrated for his fingerstyle artistry.
- Rachel Ann Weiss – An inspiring blues artist on the rise.
- The Cigar Box Kings – A band that specializes in cigar box guitar music and has been featured in numerous festivals.
Workshops and Demonstrations
Workshops represent a unique chance to dive deeper into the art of the cigar box guitar.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
- Cigar Box Guitar Making
- Basic Strumming Techniques
- Songwriting 101 with professionals
- Recording Techniques for Beginners
In past festivals, over 300 participants attended various workshops, eager to improve their skills and learn new techniques.
Merchandise and Vendors
This festival is not only about the music—there’s great shopping too!
Shopping at the Festival
Festival-goers can browse through booths with:
- Handcrafted cigar box guitars and accessories
- Exclusive festival-themed apparel and memorabilia
- Unique music merchandise
Food and Beverages
In New Orleans, culinary delights are as important as the music!
Culinary Experiences at the Festival
- Local favorites including gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys
- Artisan beverages, including craft cocktails and local brews
Last year, food vendors reported serving over 1,500 plates during the festival, affirming that cuisine is a festival highlight.
Parking and Transportation
Getting to the Cigar Box Guitar Festival New Orleans is straightforward.
Getting to the Venue
The venue is easily accessible via public transport, rideshare options, and nearby parking lots. Major rideshare services see surges during events, so I recommend planning ahead and arriving early to grab a spot or to avoid waiting times!
Event Rules and Regulations
Maintaining a safe and enjoyable atmosphere is our top priority.
Important Guidelines for Attendees
- No outside food or beverages
- Respect the performers and follow their requests
- Children must be supervised at all times
These rules ensure everyone has a pleasant experience while enjoying the music and festivities.
Social Media and Community Engagement
Let’s keep the fun flowing long after the festival!
Share Your Experience
We encourage attendees to post their experiences using the hashtag #NOCigarBoxFestival on social media, creating a connected community of music lovers.
Post-Event Activities
What happens after the festival can be just as exciting!
What to Expect After the Festival
Many attendees continue the musical celebration by scheduling informal jam sessions or meetups, with over 100 community-driven events reported last year in the weeks following the festival.
FAQs
What is New Orleans’ biggest festival?
While several festivals claim the title, Mardi Gras stands out as the largest, attracting approximately 1.4 million visitors each year, celebrated with grand parades and street performances.
How hard is it to play a Cigar Box Guitar?
Playing a cigar box guitar is relatively easy for beginners. In fact, I found that most first-time players can learn simple chords within an hour, making it a fantastic instrument to start your musical journey.
Who plays the Cigar Box Guitar?
Musicians from various backgrounds—ranging from hobbyists to professional artists—play the cigar box guitar, proving its versatility and accessibility. Many students I meet at the festival come from different walks of life, united by their love for music.
How long does it take to learn Cigar Box Guitar?
Most novices can grasp the basics within a few weeks, but mastering advanced techniques can take longer, with dedication impacting the speed of learning. I’ve seen passionate learners significantly improve in just three months of consistent practice.
