Preservation Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

© Cosmo Condina/Alamy

Preservation Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

Preservation Hall is a legendary performance space situated in the heart of the French Quarter, the oldest section of the city of New Orleans – the birthplace of jazz. Since the former art gallery opened in 1961, Preservation Hall has become a premier showcase for traditional New Orleans jazz and a venue for the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, which performs here most evenings. It might be particularly busy tonight as New Orleans celebrates Mardi Gras – Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day on this side of the pond – which means the French Quarter and other parts of the city turn into massive party zones, with parades and music.