The annual New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is showcasing a promising lineup in 2016. The festival runs from April 22 to May 1, 2016, and will be held at the New Orleans Fair Grounds and Racetrack. General admission tickets are $75 and tickets in advance are running for ten dollars less.

The lineup includes artists such as J. Cole, Elle King, Snoop Dogg, the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and more. This year’s lineup is full of variety, from rappers to alternative rockers, and, of course, locals such as the Mardi Gras Indians.

“I can’t wait to see J. Cole. He’s one of my favorite rappers,” said St. Paul’s School junior Cameron Meyers.

The music, of course, isn’t the only thing to be enjoyed at the festival. As always, there will be a variety of food, focusing on New Orleans-style cuisine. There will also be items for sale at the multiple marketplaces on the premises.

“The crawfish bread is really unique and amazing,” said junior Nick Ashton. “It’s cheesy goodness on bread. What more could you ask for?”

St. Paul’s students were rewarded with a day off for the school’s achievement of the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence title, and that day off falls on the opening day of Jazz Fest. Those students wanting to get an early start at the festival have that opportunity, thanks to the hard work of the students and staff.

“It’s super convenient we have a day off,” said junior Cade Icamina, who plans to attend the fest.

With this year’s lineup comes a new rule: no blankets or chairs are allowed on the track, as reported by the New Orleans Advocate. In light of this, the standing areas in front of the main stages have been expanded and, most noticeably, large bleachers will be added to the grounds in front of the track. This year’s lineup should put the new rule to work due to the popularity of certain artists. Without the track, this year’s festival looks to be packed more than ever.