Your Guide to French Quarter Festival in New Orleans
Great live music and food from New Orleans’ top restaurants highlight a big springtime event in the city’s oldest neighborhood.
The French Quarter Festival in New Orleans has been celebrating music for decades. This annual spring event has become one of the most anticipated and best-attended celebrations in the state.
Festival History
In 1984, New Orleans' French Quarter neighborhood underwent a significant sidewalk and street revitalization project in preparation for hosting the World’s Fair. To bring residents and visitors back to the streets following the construction, Mayor Ernest “Dutch” Morial announced that a celebration was to take place, and the French Quarter Festival was born.
This festival is one of the most popular in New Orleans.
Try a variety of delicious local food.
You'll see fun characters all around.
Be sure to get on your feet and dance to the tunes.
French Quarter Fest: 40 Years Later
One of the largest free music festivals in the South, French Quarter Fest attracts hundreds of thousands of people over four days. For decades, more than 20 stages throughout the French Quarter have presented over 1,700 local musicians who play every genre from jazz and R&B to gospel, classical and New Orleans funk. Visitors and locals enjoy basking in the shade of the historic Jackson Square while listening to a brass or zydeco band, while munching on a delicious traditional Louisiana snack.
Festival Cuisine for All
Naturally, food is a big star here. More than 50 food and beverage booths located throughout the French Quarter feature authentic local cuisine from the area’s oldest and most beloved restaurants, as well as up-and-coming stars of the culinary scene. Tastes hundreds of local dishes, including po'boys, seafood-stuffed mirliton, boudin egg rolls, crawfish boil-flavored pickles and more. Is your mouth watering yet? Once you've got your food in hand, explore all that the French Quarter has to offer: The French Market, Cafe Du Monde and Bourbon Street.
Family-Friendly Activities
In addition to music for all musical tastes, French Quarter Fest provides plenty of activities for festival-goers of all ages! There’s even a STEM Zone with hands-on activities designed to spark curiosity about science, technology, engineering and math.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the French Quarter Festival?
The festival takes place each year in April.
How do I get tickets?
No tickets are needed. The festival is free and open to the public.
Can I bring a chair or blanket?
Yes. Blankets and chairs are welcome. Tents and sun shades are prohibited.
Where should I stay?
Check out our list of places to stay in New Orleans.
How can I plan my days at the festival?
You can download the French Quarter Festival app and gain access to the music schedule, food vendors, events and more. For additional information, visit the French Quarter Festival website and make sure to check out the event map to scope out the stage and vendor locations.
When exploring Louisiana festivals, French Quarter Fest is one you won't want to miss!
