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, Louisiana, has been celebrating music for decades. This annual spring event has become one of the most anticipated and best-attended celebrations in the state.

French-Quarter-Fest

This festival is one of the most popular in New Orleans.

Food Truck & Arts and Craft Festival

Try a variety of delicious local food.

French Quarter Fest

You'll see fun characters all around.

French-Quarter-Fest-Dancing

Be sure to get on your feet and dance to the tunes.

Festival History

In 1984, the New Orleans' French Quarter underwent a significant sidewalk and street revitalization project. To bring residents and visitors back to the streets of the French Quarter following the construction, the mayor at the time announced that a festival was to take place in the French Quarter, thus creating French Quarter Festival.  

French Quarter Fest: 40 Years Later

Billed as the largest free music festival in the South, French Quarter Festival 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. Imagine: Basking in the shade of the historic Jackson Square while listening to a brass or zydeco band.

Festival Cuisine for All

Naturally, food is a big star here. More than 75 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" 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, festival-goers of all ages are invited to attend! The festival features activities for kids, including a STEM Zone with hands-on activities.

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. 

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 Festival is one you won't want to miss!