The French Quarter Festival is slated to begin on April 10th in the heart of New Orleans. This annual event transforms the city’s French Quarter into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and cuisine. Spanning scenic areas such as the Riverfront and Jackson Square, the festival draws thousands of locals and visitors for a four-day immersive experience that highlights the city’s unique cultural heritage.
First held in 1984, the French Quarter Festival was created as a way to revitalize the French Quarter and support local businesses during a challenging time for the area. Since then, it has grown into the largest free showcase of Louisiana’s music and culinary traditions in the United States. It is widely regarded as a key cultural event that celebrates the artistic soul of New Orleans while blending its historic charm and present-day vitality.
Beyond its cultural importance, the French Quarter Festival serves as a major economic driver for the area, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors. Local businesses, restaurants, boutiques, and artisans benefit from the increased foot traffic during the event. Over the four days, the bustling streets reflect the very essence of New Orleans life, from family-owned eateries serving authentic Creole dishes to local craftsmen displaying handmade goods. Hotels, cafés, and shops experience a significant boost in business, making the festival a pillar of economic sustainability for the French Quarter.
The 2025 festival brings together some of Louisiana’s finest musicians across 22 stages situated throughout iconic venues in the Quarter. Guests can expect a diverse range of performances, from the soul-stirring sounds of jazz and blues to the lively rhythms of zydeco and the unmistakable brassy energy of the second-line tradition. This year’s lineup includes the Chevron Evening Concert Series, featuring performances by Chapel Hart, The Original Pinettes Brass Band with Mia X, Little Freddie King, and Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters. Notable debuts include celebrated artists like Irma Thomas, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, and The Soul Rebels, promising to deliver unforgettable moments for festivalgoers.
Enriching experiences extend beyond live music performances. The Chevron STEM Zone provides interactive learning opportunities for younger attendees, and Ernie’s Schoolhouse Stage offers a platform for emerging musical talent. Additionally, two new features this year are the Loyola University Esplanade in the Shade Stage, which highlights alumni from Loyola University in an intimate setting characterized by musical sophistication, and the Louisiana Fish Fry Stage at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, which pays homage to the city’s legendary brass bands, ensuring a dynamic and spirited experience.
One of the festival’s defining attributes is its free admission, offering four days of exceptional live music and cultural immersion without an entry fee. For those seeking a more personalized and elevated experience, VIP packages are available:
Single-Day Pass: $149
4-Day Weekend Pass (Thursday-Sunday): $449
4-Day Pass with Front-of-Stage Access: $1,200
4-Day VIP Parking Pass (add-on): $356
VIP benefits include access to shaded seating lounges, private restrooms, complimentary water and snacks, and three complimentary beverages per day.
For more details and to plan your visit to the French Quarter Festival, visit FrenchQuarterFest.org.
