BEST FEST

KID smART's BEST FEST is a joyful, free end-of-school-year celebration that brings together children, families, and the broader New Orleans community for a day of arts-integrated activities, interactive workshops, live performances, and creative experiences led by KID smART Teaching Artists. This year's event takes place on Friday, May 9 at Zony Mash Beer Project (3940 Thalia St), featuring live music from Duo Louisiane with Glenn Hartman and Washboard Chaz, a special drag story time with the fabulous Laveau Contraire, a student art showcase highlighting work created through KID smART's school programmes, book giveaways, and a rousing finale performance by the Treme Brass Band. Activities are best suited for children ages 5–10. KID smART is a New Orleans-based nonprofit dedicated to arts education, working year-round to embed the arts into the fabric of public schools through residencies, professional development for teachers, and community events. BEST FEST captures the spirit of everything KID smART stands for — the belief that creativity, joy, and artistic expression are essential to every child's education.