French Quarter Festival Returns in 2026
For over four decades, the French Quarter Festival has taken place in New Orleans to bring a celebration of music, food and Louisiana culture. In 2026, the festival will return, promoting the Vieux Carré and celebrating the city's cultural heritage through events that are community focused.
This year, the festival will take place from Thursday, April 16 though Sunday April 19 in the historic French Quarter and along the Riverfront.
After its founding in 1984, French Quarter Festival has grown to be recognized as the city's "favorite festival" and is known for spotlighting local artists across 20 plus stages and serving meals from several Louisiana restaurants. This year, the festival promises over 300 performances with artists influenced by New Orleans' culture and specializing in traditional jazz, brass bands, zydeco, bounce, and soul music.
Location and Expansions
A highlight for the 2026 festival is the debut of a new riverfront site at Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Governor Nicholls Wharf. This expanded venue will allow guests more space to explore and enjoy the Mississippi River scenery with access to the French Market and New Orleans Jazz Museum. Several stages will also relocate to this area, including the Pan-American Life Insurance Group Stage and the Jack Daniel's Stage, which will feature sets from Cupid & the Dance Party Express, Irma Thomas, and Big Freedia.
Featured Music and Performances
Multiple music stages will extend to four full days of programming. The Louisiana Fish Fry Stage will move temporarily to the riverfront featuring brass bands and DJs. Additionally, the House of Blues Voodoo Garden Stage will add an extra day and a Thursday night "FQF After Dark" performance. There will also be performances at the Jazz Museum's Loyola University Esplanade in the Shade Stage and Songwriter Stage.
Culinary Offerings
In terms of food, there will be over 275 culinary offerings from more than 60 food vendors. Chicken's Kitchen and Willie Mae's will join the festival for the first time, and longer-time favorites include Vaucresson Sausage, Ms. Linda the YaKa-Mein Lady and Loretta's Authentic Pralines. There will also be live cooking demonstrations at the Mike's Amazing Culinary Stage, as well as many options for cocktails and local beverages
Additional Benefits & VIP Passes
This year, the inaugural French Quarter Festival 5K will invite participants to run through the neighborhood on Saturday, April 18.
In addition to this, those interested can take home the 2026 commemorative poster by Anne Lipscomb. The poster will also be featured on t-shirts, which are also for purchase. The posters are $35 and the t-shirts are available for $33.
In addition to all of these activities and memorabilia, festival-goers can also upgrade their experience with VIP passes that will support the festival's free admission structure. These individuals will be granted access to exclusive amenities and clear viewing experiences. Fest Family VIP members will be granted access to private areas at four locations that include private bars with three complementary drinks per day, air-conditioned bathrooms, seating with shade, and more. The four-day Fest Family weekend passes will cost $480 with single-day passes costing $160. If desired, VIP members can also purchase an add-on that includes a four-day parking pass or a Front-of-the-Stage Pass, allowing fans to get up close to performances. Only a limited number of passes are available.
Nonprofit Goals
As a nonprofit organization, the French Quarter Festival is committed to keeping the festival free of admission costs. Through sponsorships and their grassroots work, such as the "$5 for Fest" donation campaign, the organization makes sure over 1,800 local musicians have the ability to perform and that this tradition can continue.
