Since 1984, French Quarter Festival has been a local favorite for us in the New Orleans area! The totally free, four-day music fest also attracts visitors to the Crescent City from all over the world. The festival features local bands and musicians from around Louisiana and the southern gulf coast areas. You can find your favorite Jazz, Zydeco, Rock, Blues, and more. This year (2023) it will take place from Thursday, April 13th through Sunday, April 16th.
The festival is spread out across the French Quarter and Riverfront areas of New Orleans with an amazing mix of local restaurant and food vendors, great music, and demonstrations. The best part is that it is all FREE! Yes, that is one reason it is a local favorite for us and we rarely miss it! The weather in New Orleans is also really nice in April (usually) so it is a perfect time to visit.
This year, some of the featured headliners are Louisiana Leroux, Ani Difranco, The Soul Rebels Ft. Big Freedia, Bonerama (one of our faves), and so many more! You can see the full lineup here.
Some of our favorite local restaurants participating are Dickie Brennan’s, Jacques-Imo’s, Tujague’s, Galatoire’s Restaurant and many more! Each booth features one or more dishes and it is a great way to “eat” your way around the festival and try some of the best restaurants dishes from the best New Orleans restaurants.
Where Should You Stay for New Orleans French Quarter Fest?
Since the festival is spread out throughout the French Quarter area there are many hotels to choose from that is walking distance from the music, food, and fun. Make sure to check out our recent review of The Saint Hotel that is on Canal Street. Some other fantastic options are Hotel Monteleone, “haunted” Bourbon Orleans Hotel, or the Prince Conti Hotel. There are so many in the area that it is hard to choose our favorites!
Bottom Line on NOLA French Quarter Fest
The food, music, and festivities are a must-see if you are planning a visit to New Orleans! We will be there enjoying it all! If you visit, don’t forget to pace yourself over the four days so that nothing is missed. Besides Mardi Gras, French Quarter Festival is New Orleans’ best FREE show of the year and showcases our favorite local music.
Are you ready for the fun? Let us know if you plan to visit for FQF 2023 in the comments below.