Buffalo Jazz Festival Prelude: A New Orleans Celebration with The Brass Machine

Ellicott Street transforms into a Bourbon Street-style celebration with live brass band music, New Orleans flavors, and community pride.

Buffalo is about to experience a Bourbon Street-style celebration as we kick off an exciting jazz day with the Buffalo Jazz Festival Prelude: A New Orleans Celebration, happening Sunday, August 10th from 4 PM to 7 PM on closed-off Ellicott Street, in front of Tappo Restaurant and up Ellicott Street.

We’re thrilled to welcome The Brass Machine, Buffalo’s premier brass band, who will light up the street with the infectious spirit of New Orleans jazz. Known for their energy and crowd-moving grooves, they’ll bring the spirit of Bourbon Street right to the heart of downtown Buffalo.

In partnership with our long-term supporter Tappo Restaurant, we’re creating a memorable Bourbon Street-style vibe—complete with special themed cocktails, a New Orleans-inspired food menu, and tables and chairs in the street. And yes, there will be beads, music, and celebration—all the hallmarks of a true New Orleans-style street party!

We’re also pleased to share that Big Ditch Brewery will open especially on Sunday to help make this an all-around community celebration. With their participation and the incredible support from Tappo, this event will showcase what makes downtown Buffalo such a vibrant and welcoming destination.

This celebration is more than a party—it’s a joyful expression of our community, a prelude to the Buffalo Jazz Festival, a testament to our resiliency, and a demonstration of how jazz continues to energize and shape our city. Through our JazzBuffalo partnerships, we’re proud to continue bringing people together with music, food, and civic pride.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, August 10th. Come for the music, stay for the atmosphere, and let’s bring Bourbon Street to Buffalo together!