Best Shopping at Jazz Fest

If during Jazz Fest the others in your party are down with you breaking away from the music to shop, consider yourself lucky. My significant other was surprisingly tolerant, indulging me in 45 minutes of art booth hopping (with bonus lackluster nods to my incessant, “Isn’t this cool?”). The live funk beating in the background was invigorating – like a shopping soundtrack I never knew I needed. I was dancing between vendors and funking it up with my credit card one booth at a time. The only issue I had was time; even with the 15-minute extension my kind husband agreed to. So, if you enjoy discovering new artists and one-of-a-kind crafts, 45 minutes will not be satisfactory. Between chatting up the artists, deciding what to buy, short dance breaks and people watching, you are going to need closer to 1.5 hours.

If you don’t have the time, why not plan ahead? Check out the pink stars I put on the map below and note the three main shopping areas to peruse; Congo Square African Marketplace, Contemporary Crafts and Louisiana Marketplace. I’ve pointed out some of my favorite vendors for this weekend below, along with their corresponding tent. Just remember to stay open-minded, set aside the time and by all means don’t look for anything specific. Enjoy the Fest!

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