2026 Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival

🎶 Get Ready for an Unforgettable Celebration of Music!

The Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival returns with an incredible lineup of events celebrating the life, legacy, and music of Danny Barker—the legendary New Orleans musician, educator, and cultural icon who shaped generations of artists.

Danny Barker was more than a performer; he was a mentor who shared not only his music but also his wisdom and love for New Orleans’ culture. Many of today’s most talented local musicians were guided and inspired by his teachings—both in music and in life.

🎸 Fundraising Concert – A Special Kickoff Event

Before we launch the 2026 festival season, join us for a special fundraising concert featuring an outstanding lineup of string masters: John Rankin, Detroit Brooks, and Seva Venet, who will open this memorable evening.

This year, we are honored to welcome Leo Nocentelli, legendary guitarist and founder of The Meters, who has joined our mission. Leo has generously donated his D’Angelico Deluxe Tammany Model Guitar, filled with personal memories, to support the festival and its educational foundation. The guitar will be personally signed by Leo during the fundraising concert.

Also performing are John Boutté, Mahmoud Chouki, and Yusa, bringing their soulful artistry for a truly intimate and energetic night of music and connection.

🏃‍♂️ Danny Barker 5K Strut Run – February 21, 2026

Kick off the new year with rhythm and movement at our Danny Barker 5K Strut Run! Shake off the winter chill and run (or walk) to warm your soul while supporting a great cause.

⛳ 2nd Annual Danny Barker Festival Golf Tournament – March 21, 2026

Following the success of our first tournament, we’re returning for another fun day of camaraderie and friendly competition at the English Turn Golf & Country Club. Come swing, laugh, and celebrate music and community on the greens!

🎉 12th Annual Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival – March 24–29, 2026

We officially kick off the 12th Annual Danny Barker Festival on March 24th at our cherished venue, the Terrell House Bed & Breakfast, a beautiful and cozy setting to begin the celebration.

• March 25: Join us for the elegant Gala Night at the New Orleans Museum of Art, featuring an unforgettable lineup of artists. Dress to impress and enjoy a night of music, culture, and community.

• March 26: Don’t miss a special performance by a guest artist from New York at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — details to be announced soon. Stay tuned!

• Throughout the week: Experience clinics and masterclasses at local schools, continuing our mission to educate and inspire young musicians by sharing Danny Barker’s story and music.

• Festival Finale: Celebrate with three days of live performances at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, featuring exceptional artists who embody the spirit and heritage of our city’s music.

❤️ Continuing Danny Barker’s Legacy

The Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival is more than an event — it’s a movement dedicated to preserving and evolving the rich musical traditions of New Orleans. Through education, performance, and community engagement, the festival honors Danny Barker’s enduring legacy and the unbreakable spirit of our city’s musicians.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering this tradition for the first time, we invite you to join us for a week of inspiration, joy, and unforgettable music that connects us all.

Venues:

English Turn Golf & Country Club
1 Clubhouse Drive, New Orleans, LA 70131

Terrell House Bed & Breakfast
1441 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

New Orleans Museum of Arts (NOMA)
1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans, LA 70124

UNO - Performing Arts Center - Room 215
2000 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans, LA 70148
University of New Orleans at the intersection of St. Anthony Ave & Milneburg Rd.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
626 Frenchmen Street, New Orleans, LA 70116

New Orleans Jazz Museum
400 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70116