Satchmo Summerfest celebrates ‘A Wonderful World’ on late Louis Armstrong’s birthday

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – The ‘wonderful world’ of New Orleans culture was on display for this year’s Satchmo Summerfest, honoring the life and legacy of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong.

The weekend music festival, produced by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund, featured two stages of performers at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, along with an indoor lecture series and a variety of southern Louisiana restaurants.

Each year, the festival coincides on or near Armstrong’s birthday — Aug. 4, 1901.

Before the downbeat of the final day Sunday (Aug. 4), Armstrong’s home church — St. Augustine Catholic Church on Governor Nichols Street — opened its doors for a special jazz Mass.

“According to St. Augustine, when we sing, we pray twice,” said Rev. Quentin Moody. “So, today I will be looking at your mouths — all of you — and believe me, I have a very good view from where I stand.”

After Mass, parishioners lined the street for a second line parade to the French Quarter.

“The culture is what makes New Orleans kick. You’re in the heat of that summer, that hot, hot time,” said lifelong Treme resident Ronald Dumas. “Like the calendar, once again, we follow the calendar through what we do and bring joy to the world.”

Performers for Sunday’s festival finale included Kermit Ruffins, John Boutte and The Dirty Dozen Brass Band.

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