Prepare yourself for an unforgettable musical extravaganza as the vibrant heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter, gears up to host the highly anticipated French Quarter Fest 2025. This iconic festival, taking place over the last weekend of March and the first weekend of April, promises an unparalleled celebration of the city’s rich musical heritage. Immerse yourself in the lively streets, where every corner reverberates with the infectious rhythms of Cajun, zydeco, jazz, and rhythm and blues. Unveiling a diverse lineup of local and international musicians, French Quarter Fest invites you to revel in the infectious energy and artistry that has made New Orleans a global musical powerhouse.
As the festival unfolds over seven stages scattered throughout the vibrant French Quarter, music enthusiasts will embark on an auditory journey, experiencing the captivating performances of legendary artists and rising stars alike. The fest’s commitment to fostering local talent shines through, providing a platform for up-and-coming musicians to showcase their skills. Alongside the musical extravaganza, French Quarter Fest delights the senses with a vibrant marketplace featuring local artisans and gourmet culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of New Orleans culture as you browse intricate crafts, savor authentic Creole cuisine, and engage with the friendly locals who embody the city’s warm hospitality.
Indulge in the cultural treasures that await you at French Quarter Fest 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-time visitor, the vibrant atmosphere and infectious rhythms will undoubtedly captivate your heart. As the days unfold, immerse yourself in the joy-filled streets, surrender to the spellbinding melodies, and embrace the vibrant spirit that makes New Orleans a truly unforgettable destination. Prepare for an extraordinary musical journey that will leave a lasting impression on your soul.
French Quarter Fest 2025: A Vibrant Celebration of Music and Culture
Immerse Yourself in a Musical Extravaganza
The French Quarter Festival, a beloved annual event in the heart of New Orleans, will once again ignite the city with its infectious rhythm and vibrant spirit in 2025. Get ready for four unforgettable days of non-stop music, culture, and authentic Louisiana cuisine. From April 10th to 13th, the French Quarter will transform into a musical tapestry, with over 2,000 musicians taking to 20 stages spread across the historic streets.
Expect an eclectic mix of genres that pays homage to the city’s rich musical heritage and showcases emerging talent. Jazz, blues, Cajun, zydeco, gospel, and more will fill the air, creating an intoxicating symphony. The festival’s renowned hospitality offers a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where everyone can embrace the joy of music.
Complementing the musical performances will be a vibrant street fair, where local artisans and vendors will showcase their unique wares. Indulge in delectable Cajun dishes, savor classic cocktails, and browse the colorful booths that line the festival grounds. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of New Orleans as you witness the fusion of history, art, and community that makes this festival so exceptional.
Festival Dates
The French Quarter Festival 2025 will be held from:
Day | Date |
---|---|
Thursday | April 10th, 2025 |
Friday | April 11th, 2025 |
Saturday | April 12th, 2025 |
Sunday | April 13th, 2025 |
When is French Quarter Fest 2025? Mark Your Calendars
French Quarter Fest is a free, four-day music and food festival held annually in New Orleans’ French Quarter. The festival features over 20 stages with live music, as well as food and drinks from over 60 local restaurants. French Quarter Fest 2025 will be held on Thursday, April 10th through Sunday, April 13th.
Mark Your Calendars
French Quarter Fest 2025 will be held on the following dates:
Day | Date |
---|---|
Thursday | April 10th |
Friday | April 11th |
Saturday | April 12th |
Sunday | April 13th |
The festival will be open from 11:00am to 7:00pm each day.
French Quarter Fest 2025 Dates: An Unforgettable Weekend in New Orleans
Dates and Times
French Quarter Fest 2025 will take place over three days: Friday, April 11th, through Sunday, April 13th. The festival will be open from 11 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday and from 11 am to 8 pm on Sunday.
Stages and Music Lineup
French Quarter Fest features over 20 stages throughout the French Quarter, each showcasing a diverse range of musical genres. From traditional jazz and blues to rock, pop, and Latin music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The full lineup of artists will be announced closer to the festival dates.
Food and Drinks
French Quarter Fest is known for its delicious food and drinks. Over 100 vendors will offer a wide variety of culinary delights, from classic New Orleans dishes like gumbo and po’boys to international fare and sweet treats. There will also be plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
Day | Hours |
---|---|
Friday, April 11th | 11 am – 10 pm |
Saturday, April 12th | 11 am – 10 pm |
Sunday, April 13th | 11 am – 8 pm |
French Quarter Fest 2025 Lineup: A Star-Studded Extravaganza
Local Legends and Rising Stars
French Quarter Fest is renowned for its diverse lineup, showcasing both iconic local acts and rising musical stars. These talented artists represent the vibrant tapestry of New Orleans music, from traditional jazz and funk to contemporary indie and folk. Acts like the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Rebirth Brass Band, and Theresa Andersson have graced the festival’s stages, captivating audiences with their captivating performances.
International Flair and Global Beats
The festival’s global reach extends far beyond New Orleans, offering a captivating showcase of music from around the world. International artists bring their unique cultural influences and rhythms, creating a vibrant and eclectic musical experience. From the soulful melodies of Cuban salsa to the pulsating Afrobeat, French Quarter Fest embraces the diversity of the world’s musical tapestry.
Musical Masterclasses and Educational Opportunities
Beyond the main performance stages, French Quarter Fest offers an array of musical workshops and educational opportunities. These sessions provide attendees with a chance to learn from renowned musicians, gain insights into different musical styles, and develop their own musical skills. The festival’s focus on education fosters a lifelong love of music and nurtures the next generation of musicians.
Interactive Music Zones and Community Engagement
The festival’s interactive music zones invite attendees to immerse themselves in the vibrant musical culture of New Orleans. From street parades led by local marching bands to Cajun dance lessons, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. French Quarter Fest is more than just a performance showcase; it’s a community celebration that embraces the city’s rich musical heritage and fosters a sense of unity and pride.
French Quarter Fest 2025 Food and Drink: A Culinary Adventure
Food and Drink
French Quarter Fest is a food and music lover’s paradise. With over 60 food booths and 30 beverage stations, there’s something to satisfy every palate. From classic Creole dishes to international fare, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to explore.
Must-Try Dishes
No visit to French Quarter Fest is complete without trying some of the local specialties. Here are a few must-try dishes:
- Jambalaya: A hearty rice dish with shrimp, chicken, and sausage
- Gumbo: A flavorful stew with okra, shrimp, and meat
- Po’boys: A traditional sandwich with fried seafood or meat
- Beignets: A pillowy pastry covered in powdered sugar
Drink Stations
In addition to the food, French Quarter Fest offers a wide variety of beverages. From local craft beers to refreshing cocktails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are a few highlights:
- Abita Beer: A Louisiana-based brewery with a wide selection of craft beers
- Hurricanes: A classic New Orleans cocktail made with rum, fruit juices, and grenadine
- Mint Juleps: A refreshing cocktail made with bourbon, mint, and sugar
Tips for Dining and Drinking
- Arrive early to avoid lines
- Bring cash, as many vendors do not accept cards
- Be sure to try the local specialties
- Take advantage of the drink stations to stay hydrated
- Pace yourself, as there’s a lot of food and drink to enjoy
Cost
Admission to French Quarter Fest is free. However, food and drinks are not included in the admission price. The cost of food and drinks varies, but most dishes and drinks range from $5 to $15.
Item | Price |
---|---|
Jambalaya | $10 |
Gumbo | $12 |
Po’boy | $8 |
Beignets | $5 |
Abita Beer | $6 |
Hurricane | $10 |
Mint Julep | $8 |
French Quarter Fest 2025 Accommodations: Plan Your Stay in Advance
French Quarter Fest, a free music festival that takes place in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, will be held in 2025 from Thursday, April 10th to Sunday, April 13th. With over 25 stages and 2,000 musicians performing everything from jazz to R&B to Cajun, French Quarter Fest is one of the most popular events in New Orleans.
If you’re planning to attend French Quarter Fest 2025, it’s important to book your accommodations early. The French Quarter is a popular tourist destination, and hotel rooms can fill up quickly during peak season.
Where to Stay
There are a variety of hotels and bed and breakfasts located in the French Quarter, so you’re sure to find something to fit your budget and needs. Here are a few popular options:
- The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter.
- The Hotel Monteleone: A historic hotel with a rooftop pool and stunning views of the city.
- The Bourbon Orleans Hotel: A charming hotel with a courtyard pool and a lively bar.
- The Ace Hotel New Orleans: A hip hotel with a rooftop bar and a lively music scene.
- The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery: A boutique hotel with a rooftop bar and a courtyard.
Prices
Hotel prices in the French Quarter vary depending on the time of year and the level of luxury. During French Quarter Fest, you can expect to pay more for a hotel room than you would at other times of the year. Here is a general range of prices for hotel rooms in the French Quarter during French Quarter Fest:
| Hotel Category | Price Range |
|—|—|
| Luxury | $250-$500 per night |
| Mid-Range | $150-$250 per night |
| Budget | $100-$150 per night |
Booking
Once you’ve decided where you want to stay, it’s important to book your room as early as possible. You can book online, over the phone, or through a travel agent. Here are a few tips for booking your hotel room:
- Book early to get the best rates and availability.
- Consider booking a package deal that includes hotel accommodations and tickets to French Quarter Fest.
- If you’re traveling with a group, consider booking a suite or a group of rooms.
French Quarter Fest 2025 transportation: Navigating the Festival
Ride the Ferry
The Algiers Ferry is a great way to avoid traffic and get to the festival from the West Bank. The ferry runs every 20 minutes during the festival and costs $2 per person. You can catch the ferry at the Algiers Point Ferry Terminal, which is located at 500 Morgan Street in Algiers.
Take the Streetcar
The St. Charles Streetcar line runs through the French Quarter and makes stops at several festival stages. The streetcar costs $3 per ride, and you can purchase a day pass for $9. You can catch the streetcar at any of the stops along St. Charles Avenue.
Ride the Bus
The RTA operates several bus lines that serve the French Quarter. The fare is $2 per ride, and you can purchase a day pass for $9. You can find a list of bus routes and stops on the RTA website.
Take a Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshares are readily available in New Orleans. You can hail a taxi on the street or call a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled.
Walk or Bike
If you’re staying in the French Quarter, you can easily walk or bike to the festival. The festival is located within a few blocks of most hotels and guesthouses.
Park and Ride
There are several park-and-ride lots located near the French Quarter. You can park your car at one of these lots and take a shuttle bus to the festival. The cost of parking varies depending on the lot.
Accessible Transportation
The RTA offers accessible transportation for people with disabilities. You can call the RTA at 504-248-3900 to arrange for accessible transportation.
Transportation Option | Cost |
---|---|
Algiers Ferry | $2 per person |
St. Charles Streetcar | $3 per ride |
RTA Bus | $2 per ride |
Taxi or Rideshare | Varies |
Park and Ride | Varies |
French Quarter Fest: 2025 Safety Tips
1. Know Your Surroundings
Get a good feel for the geography of the French Quarter. Learn the major intersections and landmarks to prevent getting disoriented.
2. Travel in Groups or with a Buddy System
Always travel with friends or family, especially at night. There is safety in numbers.
3. Stay Aware of Your Belongings
Keep an eye on your personal items, and don’t leave them unattended. Use a crossbody bag or a backpack with a locking mechanism.
4. Avoid ATMs at Night
If you need to use an ATM, choose a well-lit, populated area and use a machine inside a bank or well-staffed business.
5. Be Mindful of Your Alcohol Consumption
Festivals offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy alcohol, but it’s crucial to pace yourself. Overindulgence can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable.
6. Look for Police Officers for Help
If you need assistance or witness any suspicious activity, don’t hesitate to seek help from a police officer. They are there for your safety.
8. Be Cautious of Scams
Unfortunately, scammers may target festival attendees. Be aware of common scams, such as:
- Con artists offering fake festival tickets or merchandise.
- People asking for donations with forged documents or personal stories.
- Individuals claiming to need money or medical assistance.
- Strangers offering free drinks or drugs.
- Car mechanics performing unnecessary repairs on your vehicle.
If a situation feels suspicious, trust your instincts and report it to the authorities.
Beware of Counterfeit Tickets
To avoid purchasing counterfeit tickets, buy them directly from authorized vendors. If you’re buying tickets from a third party, meet in a public place and verify the tickets’ authenticity.
French Quarter Fest 2025 for Families: Making Memories with the Kids
Free, Family-Fun Festivities
French Quarter Fest is an annual celebration of New Orleans music, culture, and food. The three-day festival, held in April, is free to attend and features a wide variety of family-friendly activities. These include concerts, parades, arts and crafts stations, and food vendors.
Live Music for the Whole Family
The festival’s music stages feature a mix of musical genres, from jazz and blues to rock and pop. There are also special performances for kids, such as the “Kids’ Sing-Along” and the “Kids’ Dance Party.”
Tasty Treats
French Quarter Fest is a great place to sample some of New Orleans’ famous cuisine. The festival’s food vendors offer a variety of dishes, from traditional Cajun fare to gourmet treats.
Artful Expression
Kids can express their creativity at the festival’s arts and crafts stations. Activities include painting, sculpting, and making masks.
A Vibrant Parade
The festival’s parade is a colorful spectacle that features floats, marching bands, and costumed performers. Kids will love catching beads and trinkets thrown from the floats.
Rides and Games
In addition to the music, food, and arts and crafts, the festival also offers a variety of rides and games for kids. These include a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a rock climbing wall.
Safety First
The festival’s organizers prioritize safety. There are ample security personnel on-site, and the festival grounds are well-lit.
Accessibility
The festival is accessible to people with disabilities. There are wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms throughout the festival grounds.
9. Planning Your Visit
- The festival is held in the heart of the French Quarter, so it’s easy to get to by foot, bike, or public transportation.
- The festival grounds are open from 10am to 7pm on Friday and Saturday, and from 10am to 5pm on Sunday.
- There are no ATMs on the festival grounds, so be sure to bring cash.
- The festival is a popular event, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Be sure to check the festival’s website for the most up-to-date information on events and activities.
When: | April [Start Date]th – [End Date]th, 2025 |
Where: | French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana |
Cost: | Free |
French Quarter Fest 2025 Accessibility: Ensuring a Welcoming Experience for All
Accessibility Features
French Quarter Fest is committed to providing an accessible and inclusive experience for all attendees. Some of the accessibility features offered include:
- Ramps and accessible pathways throughout the festival grounds
- Wheelchair and scooter rentals
- Assistive listening devices
- Braille and large-print materials
- Interpreters for the deaf and hard of hearing
Accessible Restrooms and Medical Services
Accessible restrooms are located throughout the festival, and medical staff are on-hand to assist with any accessibility needs.
Companion Program
Attendees who require assistance can register for the Companion Program, which provides a designated companion to assist with navigation, transportation, and other needs.
Sensory-Friendly Areas
Designated sensory-friendly areas are available for attendees who may experience sensory sensitivities. These areas provide a calming environment with reduced noise levels and crowds.
Service Animals
Service animals are welcome at French Quarter Fest. Please ensure your animal is well-behaved and has proper documentation.
Transportation Options
Accessible transportation options are available to and from the festival grounds, including:
- ADA-compliant paratransit services
- Wheelchair-accessible taxis
- Designated drop-off and pick-up areas
Assistive Technology
Assistive technology devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and hearing aids, are encouraged for attendees who require them. The festival also provides assistive listening devices upon request.
Contact Information
For additional accessibility information or to register for the Companion Program, please contact:
Email: | accessibility@frenchquarterfest.org |
---|---|
Phone: | (504) 522-4786 |
French Quarter Fest 2025 Dates
French Quarter Fest is an annual music and entertainment festival held in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. The festival showcases a diverse lineup of local, regional, and national musicians, as well as arts and crafts vendors, food and drink, and family-friendly activities. French Quarter Fest 2025 will be held over four days, from Thursday, April 17th to Sunday, April 20th.
The festival is free to attend and open to the public. Attendees can enjoy live music on multiple stages, browse the arts and crafts market, and sample a variety of food and drink from local vendors. There are also numerous family-friendly activities, including a children’s area with games and activities, and a pet parade.
People Also Ask
When is French Quarter Fest 2025?
French Quarter Fest 2025 will be held from Thursday, April 17th to Sunday, April 20th.
Where is French Quarter Fest 2025?
French Quarter Fest 2025 will be held in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana.
Is French Quarter Fest 2025 free to attend?
Yes, French Quarter Fest 2025 is free to attend and open to the public.