Hey, Joliet: New Orleans North Is Almost Here, Here's Everything You Need To Know

(The following edited press release came from the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce.)

JOLIET, IL —New Orleans North Music Festival, presented by Harrah’s Joliet, returns to downtown Joliet on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 5–11 p.m. Held at the Joliet Slammers Stadium, this 21+ event transforms the ballpark into a vibrant celebration of New Orleans culture.

General admission tickets are just $10 in advance at NewOrleansNorthJoliet.com. Ticket price increases 24-hours prior to gates opening to $20. An exciting new addition – a GA + Rooftop Experience – was announced this spring. This exclusive $30 ticket grants entry to the event, plus access to a premium rooftop viewing area overlooking the main stage. This year, the main stage is set on the center field concourse behind the scoreboard, while the rooftop viewing area sits atop ‘The Yard’ concession stand in left field. With only 50 tickets available, this is a can’t-miss opportunity for an elevated festival experience.

“After 13 incredible years, we’re thrilled to once again bring the magic of New Orleans North to life inside the Joliet Slammers Stadium,” said Jen Howard, President of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry. “Pairing the charm of downtown Joliet with the energy and spirit of NOLA creates the perfect recipe for an unforgettable summer night.”

D’Arcy Buick GMC Main Stage Entertainment

Unlike any other event in the region, New Orleans North features four separate areas of distinctly different musical entertainment. This year, the D’Arcy Buick GMC Main Stage, located on the center field concourse behind the scoreboard, will be headlined by Zydeco Voodoo. The Chicago-based band plays a fun mix of New Orleans style music and Zydeco as well as popular rock, blues, and original tunes in an upbeat style you may hear down on Bourbon Street! The music is sure to get the audience dancing, singing along and having a good time.

A fan-favorite from last year, back by popular demand – The Chicago Blues Angels will precede Zydeco Voodoo. The Chicago Blues Angels (CBA) are high energy, high octane and always rock the house! CBA has played American Roots Music, Rock n Roll, Blues, Rockabilly, and a whole lotta soul since 1999.

Main stage entertainment will kick off with a traditional New Orleans-inspired brass zydeco band: the 3rd City Brass Band. The 3rd City Brass Band will parade NOLA-infused funky jams as they accompany the first attendees inside with a second line style parade to the stage.

Thompson’s Tap & Alleys

Three additional areas will offer an eccentric line up of live music. The Righteous Hillbillies will once again headline Thompson’s Tap located on down the third base line atop the ‘West Gate.’ With their Southern spirit of blues boogie, soul groove, along with the primal and visceral energy of rock ‘n’ roll power, the Righteous Hillbillies are an act you don’t want to miss.

The Dan Dougherty Band and Sam Burns & Friends will set the tone at Thompson’s Tap. Opening act Sam Burns is a Chicago-based guitarist and singer-songwriter whose debut album, The Missing Piece, showcases his soulful blend of bluesy riffs and introspective lyrics. The Dan Dougherty Band is comprised of singer‑songwriter and multi‑instrumentalist Dan Dougherty who, after fronting various local rock and alternative bands, has released two solo albums—Bad Ideas (2020) and Fun Times Ahead (2022)—blending alt‑rock, pop, Americana, and storytelling into a distinctive, emotionally resonant sound.

On the opposite end of the concourse, the RISE Dispensaries Hookah Alley will be located at the top of the grass berm on the first base side. The Jib Brothers Band will serenade the alley throughout the night with their classic cover tunes from over 30 different artists in stunning three-part harmonies.

A fan-favorite from last year, back by popular demand – The Chicago Blues Angels will precede Zydeco Voodoo. Closing out the night on this stage is none other than Tyrone 'DJ T Bone' Simmons – aka 'Joliet’s Finest' – a Chicago-area mixshow DJ known for his Friday night residency on V103 (102.7 FM/iHeartRadio). His genre-blending sets of hip hop, R&B, and party anthems are sure to bring the vibe—don’t miss this exciting new addition to the New Orleans North lineup!

Beer & Hurricanes

A Hurricane drink is the quintessential NOLA cocktail that always gets the party started. Perfectly sweet, with just a kick of rum, and served in an event-exclusive color-changing cup, you can’t go wrong. Be sure to get yours quick though as only the first 2000 hurricanes purchased are guaranteed to be served in the custom souvenir cup.

And of course, no summer festival is complete without cold beer. The Jacob Henry Mansion, NuMark Credit Union and D’Arcy Buick GMC Drink Tent will be cracking NOLA-produced Abita Purple Haze and a variety of domestic cans including canned mixed drinks and seltzers!

Food Vendors

One of the best ways to experience New Orleans is through its bold and flavorful cuisine—and New Orleans North brings that spirit to downtown Joliet with a lineup of Cajun-inspired dishes from local restaurants and food trucks. Not into spicy? No problem. From lobster rolls and tacos to pizza and more, the festival serves up a delicious variety sure to satisfy every craving.

Street Performers

In a city where drama and theater are an everyday occurrence, eccentric performances are a must! Stilt walkers, jugglers, magicians and more will roam the footprint.

Artists Row

Artist Row brings the vibrant soul of New Orleans to life with a curated display of work from talented local artists, set on the field along the third base line. Explore the sights, meet the makers, and maybe even discover your next favorite piece – every artwork on display is available for purchase.

To purchase tickets to the New Orleans North Music Festival presented by Harrah’s Joliet visit the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry online at www.neworleansnorthjoliet.com. Tickets are $10 in advance. Pricing will increase to $20 per ticket 24-hours prior to the gates opening and entry will be $20 at the gate.

For more information on the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry, stay connected on Facebook or by visiting JolietChamber.com.