The Nickel-A-Dance is a free, family-friendly jazz concert series in New Orleans, celebrating the city’s rich musical heritage. Founded in 1994, it features top local jazz musicians performing classic jazz, blues, and swing. Originally held at Café Brasil on Frenchmen Street, the series now takes place at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro on Sundays from 3:00–6:00 PM. The event is open to all ages and aims to make live jazz accessible to everyone.

Kermit Ruffins is a renowned jazz trumpeter, vocalist, and composer from New Orleans, Louisiana. Influenced by legends like Louis Armstrong and Louis Jordan, Ruffins is celebrated for his bright, silvery trumpet tone and charismatic stage presence. He co-founded the Rebirth Brass Band in 1983, helping to revitalize New Orleans brass band music. In 1992, he formed his own group, the Barbecue Swingers, known for their lively performances and Ruffins’ signature barbecue cooking at shows. Beyond his musical career, Ruffins has appeared in HBO’s Treme and contributed to the 2016 film The Jungle Book. He continues to be a vibrant ambassador of New Orleans jazz.