Play Bourbon Street at Hard Rock Cafe
Hard Rock Cafe’s Micro Music Festival
Puts You in the Spotlight
Think you’ve got what it takes to rock Bourbon Street?
Or maybe you just love discovering local talent before everyone else does.
Either way, Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans’ Micro Music Festival deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Held every second Thursday of the month from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., this isn’t your typical open mic night. It’s a high-energy showcase where solo artists, duos, trios, and full bands all share the same stage in one of the most iconic music venues in the French Quarter. Whether you’re an experienced performer or just someone who enjoys live music with dinner, it’s a fun way to experience New Orleans’ creative spirit up close.
More Than an Open Mic
Music is woven into the fabric of New Orleans. On any given night, you’ll hear jazz spilling out of clubs, brass bands marching through the streets, and talented musicians playing every corner of the city. Hard Rock Cafe’s Micro Music Festival captures that same energy by giving both local and visiting musicians a chance to perform for a live audience.
The format is simple: performers sign up in advance, invite their family and friends, and take the stage for an evening of great music. Guests get to cheer on emerging artists, discover new favorites, and enjoy an ever-changing lineup of performances. All ages are welcome, making it a great outing for families, couples and groups of friends.
Dinner, Drinks and Live Music
Of course, this is still Hard Rock Cafe.
Come hungry for one of their Legendary® Burgers, barbecue, sandwiches or Southern-inspired favorites. Pair your meal with one of the cafe’s signature cocktails or a Hurricane, then settle in for an evening of live entertainment surrounded by an incredible collection of music memorabilia. Located at the corner of Bourbon and Iberville Streets, it’s just steps from many of the French Quarter’s most popular attractions.
Want to Perform?
If you’ve ever dreamed of playing on a Bourbon Street stage, here’s your chance. Hard Rock Cafe welcomes musicians of all experience levels, from acoustic solo acts to full bands. Simply sign up online for a performance slot, invite your biggest fans, and get ready to rock.
Plan Your Night
Whether you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time or you’re a regular who loves discovering new live music, Hard Rock Cafe’s Micro Music Festival offers a different kind of Bourbon Street experience. It’s authentic, interactive, and full of the spontaneous moments that make New Orleans unforgettable.
Bring your appetite. Bring your friends. Or bring your guitar.
You never know who you’ll hear—or who you might become a fan of—at the next Micro Music Festival.