NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The International Arts Foundation (IAF) announced the return of the International Arts Festival: NOLA, a three‑day global cultural experience taking place Friday, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 27, at the Public Market at South Shore Harbor, 6901 Stars and Stripes Blvd.
Set along the waterfront, the team shares that the 2026 edition expands IAF’s mission of cultural exchange, artistic excellence and community uplift — bringing together international performers, New Orleans legends, and a curated VIP experience designed to immerse festivalgoers in the beauty of global art.
Introducing the Ultimate VIP Weekend Experience
IAF NOLA 2026 offers an elevated Ultimate VIP Weekend Pass, granting premium access across all three days of programming. VIP guests will enjoy:
- Full Weekend Access — Entry Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
- Premium Viewing Areas — Exclusive zones close to the stage
- VIP Amenities — Dedicated bar service and private restrooms
- On‑Site Parking — Included for all VIP pass holders
- Official Festival T‑Shirt — Size selected at checkout
The VIP experience is designed to deliver comfort, convenience and front‑row access to one of the most culturally diverse festival lineups in the region.
A Global Lineup Across Three Days
Friday, September 25 — Late Night Session
A soulful, jazz‑infused kickoff featuring:
- Vincent Ingala (USA)
- Peter White (United Kingdom)
- Donald Harrison (New Orleans)
Saturday, September 26 — Outdoor Festival
A high‑energy day of international sound and cross‑cultural collaboration:
- Seun Kuti (Nigeria) — Afrobeat powerhouse
- “Sax to Soul Package” featuring Regina Belle, Michael Lington, and Paul Taylor (USA)
- Irvin Mayfield (New Orleans) — Grammy‑winning trumpeter
Sunday, September 27 — Outdoor Festival
A grand finale celebrating reggae, funk, and Afro‑Cuban rhythm:
- Collie Buddz (New Orleans‑born, Bermuda resident)
- Bushman (Jamaica)
- Corey Henry & The Treme Funktet (New Orleans)
- Alexi Marti (Cuba)
A Global Symphony Rooted in New Orleans
INTERNATIONAL ARTS FEST: NOLA is a global symphony of music curated to celebrate the beauty of art envisioned through instruments, paint brushes, voices, imagery, and poetry. The festival continues IAF’s commitment to cultural diplomacy, artistic innovation, and community connection — positioning New Orleans as a vibrant crossroads for the African Diaspora and the world.
Tickets Are Available Now
Early purchase is recommended — VIP passes and single‑day tickets are expected to sell out.
