Shaped by its unique history, New Orleans is renowned for its distinct architecture, cuisine, and music. Every year, the city’s remarkable culture takes center stage at the French Quarter Festival. With spring just around the corner, anticipation mounts for another spectacular iteration of this iconic event.
The French Quarter Festival annually spotlights the local music and cuisine of New Orleans and Louisiana. Held in the renowned French Quarter, the festival has been a beloved fixture on the historic city’s calendar for 40 years. This year’s celebration will run from April 11th to 14th.
Performances cover a wide range of musical genres, from jazz and soul to R&B, rap, and country. With 22 stages and over 300 performances, this year’s lineup includes the likes of Big Freedia, Partners-N-Crime, DJ Kelly Green, and the TBC Brass Band with HaSizzle.
Culinary delights abound at the event, with everything from classic Louisiana fare like gumbo and crawfish boils to global delicacies such as pho, tacos, and Jamaican patties. Also, a dedicated culinary stage spotlights individual vendors, adding to the gourmet experience.
Beyond music and food, the French Quarter Fest offers numerous additional special events. The Kickoff Parade starts on Bourbon Street and leads to the Annual Opening Day Ceremony at Jackson Square. There are also dance lessons, the Children’s STEM Zone, and a dynamic After Dark Series keeping the festivities alive long after the sun goes down.
General admission to the French Quarter Fest is complimentary, but VIP tickets are available for purchase online. While food vendors charge for their offerings, accessing the festival grounds and enjoying the musical performances is free.
