Jazz Fest 2009: Eating Picnic Style

Although, the fairgrounds now come with festival food tents for consumption of edible items, it is still OK to sit on the ground and do it picnic style. Perfectly alright.

Jazz Fest 2009: Food Tent

This is a new addition to Jazz Fest. It is truly a welcome convenience. Prior to the erection of this facility, festival fans ate in the stand-up or sit-down on the ground mode. This area is located central of the festival grounds and it is always very busy here.

Jazz Fest 2009: Santilla In The Gardens On Esplanade

This is an interesting shot of Santilla. She was not prepared for the camera, however, I still think it is an interesting moment.

Jazz Fest 2009: Beer Tent Traffic

The beer tents are always crowded. These ladies seem to have found what they were seeking.

Jazz Fest 2009: More Beautiful People

Jazz Fest 2009: The Beautiful People of Jazz Fest

Folks are always happy at Jazz Fest.

Jazz Fest 2009: Crowd Movement Before Entry To Gospel Tent

This is a very popular venue at Jazz Fest. Particularly because of the wonderful sounds that emanate from this tent. This area was previously occupied by the WWOZ Jazz Tent. The Gospel Tent was moved to this location recently. It is also the first venue of attraction as the crowds enter from the Sauvage Street gate.

Jazz Fest 2009: Crowds Moving Into Festival Grounds

Early crowd movement from the Sauvage Street gate to the festival grounds.

Jazz Fest 2009: Interview - Allen Toussaint

A very large part of the attraction to Jazz Fest includes the opportunity to listen close up and personal to the interviews that are conducted on The Allison Minor Music Heritage Stage. Ben Sandmel is interviewing Allen Toussaint today. Mr. Toussaint is one of this city's most influential musical artists. His accomplishments range from performer, producer, writer, songwriter, teacher, promoter and nearly all facets of the music industry possible. He is a legend in this town as he is also world renowned. His students alone have fulfilled his dreams of success as he states many times over. There is no musical artist from this city that comes to mind that has not been under the influence of Mr. Toussaint.

Jazz Fest 2009: The Voices of Distinction

These five ladies are all of the same family. They evacuated after Katrina to Baton Rouge, however,their spirit remains vital and powerful. They are regulars at Jazz Fest and their message is very strong. Images of Santilla and the crowd rocking to the sounds of the Voices of Distinction is very indicative of the message in their music.