News Release

New Orleans Jazz Modifying Operations to Implement Latest Health Guidance

Date: March 18, 2020
Contact: Kristy Wallisch, 5043820296

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve are announcing modifications to operations to implement the latest guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), and local and state authorities to promote social distancing. As of Tuesday, March 17, both parks are closed and all programs are cancelled until further notice. Visitor centers and restrooms are closed. Entrance gates to parking areas or sites are locked, but where it is possible to adhere to the latest health guidance, grounds and walking trails will remain open to pedestrian traffic to provide healthy options for the public.

The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners at the parks are our number one priority. The National Park Service (NPS) is working with the federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. We will notify the public when we resume full operations and provide updates on our websites www.nps.gov/jazz and www.nps.gov/jela and social media channels.  

The NPS urges visitors to do their part when visiting a park and to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick.   

For high-risk populations, such as the elderly and people with underlying conditions, we ask that they take extra caution and follow CDC guidance for those at higher risk of serious illness.   

Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus. Please check with New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park and with Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve for specific details about park operations.