The Big Easy

They call New Orleans The Big Easy, and after visiting I can see why. As a city steeped in such impactful American history - from French colonial times to the Civil War and its role in the Civil Rights movement, it’s interesting that New Orleans was dubbed with this name. In the 1960’s as New York City adopted the nickname of The Big Apple New Orleans was dubbed The Big Easy to reflect the slower, easier pace of life in comparison to the bustle of NYC.

These days New Orleans’ soul is very much about food and music! As the birthplace of jazz and blues the city revolves around the simple pleasure of listening to music - and of course eating and drinking. While Mardi Gras was a little too intense for my liking, Jazz Fest in May sounded more like the big easy pace I was more excited for.

The NOLA Jazz Fest offered the opportunity to delve more into the music of New Orleans. The day was pretty relaxed and I spent most of it discovering some of the local jazz and blues musicians who have helped build the music scene and my first second-line procession. Historically, second-line processions were started by the Black community as neighbourhood celebrations and often to honor community members who have died. Dressed in their Sunday bests, carrying feathers and fans the procession moves accompanied by brass musicians. A very special cultural moment to witness.

And after Jazz Fest, the party spilled into the streets..