Gentilly Fest 2026
Gentilly Fest will be returning to Pontchartrain Park with live music, food, activities, art, and family-friendly fun from Friday, October 9 through Sunday, October 11.
Presented by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation, the free annual festival celebrates the music, businesses, and cultures that make the Gentilly neighborhood unique and special. The event is located at 5701 Press Dr. in Pontchartrain Park, with three different stages for live music and performances.
This Year's Gentilly Fest Music Lineup
Music has always been an important part of Gentilly Fest, and this year's lineup will not disappoint. The musical festivities begin Friday at 6 p.m. with an "Evening Under the Stars." DJ Juane Jordan, the Jade Perdue Trio, and Ten Spencer will perform, with Marlon and Rachel Jordan closing out the evening.
Saturday's musical festivities begin at noon and feature Spin Griffey, Ms. O, Britney Chanuntae, Juice, Kayla Jasmine, and Ladies of Soul. New Orleans singer and songwriter Dawn Richard will close out the night on the main stage.
Sunday's lineup includes DJ B-Sharp, Akendor, Ms. O, Flagboy Giz, Blair Dottin-Haley, T-Ray the Violinist, and America's Got Talent finalist Jourdan Blue. The night will close with DJ Captain Charles and friends featuring Roi Antony, Ronnie Bell, Lacee and LYSA.
Gentilly Fest's popular Gospel Tent will also return Saturday and Sunday, featuring performances from local choirs, churches, and gospel artists. Saturday's lineup includes the St. Peter Claver Choir, Grace United Methodist Choir, The Jones Sisters, and Greater St. Stephen Full Gospel Choir, while Sunday's performers include the Zion Harmonizers, Professor Craig Adams and the Adams Singers, and Lady Felicia Travis.
More to Enjoy at Gentilly Fest
The Arts & Crafts Village will feature local vendors selling their artistic creations. The festival's medical tent will connect visitors with health and wellness resources from New Orleans-area providers. Families can head to the Kids Village for rides, face painting, and performances showcasing some of the city's young talent. Young business owners will also have their own spotlight at the Kids Village Young Entrepreneurs' Tent, where youth entrepreneurs can sell their creations. College students can also get involved through the Jimmy Stokes Youth Service Volunteer Award. Students who complete at least 16 hours of service at the festival will be eligible for a drawing for a $500 book voucher, according to the festival's press release.
Gentilly Fest grew out of an effort to strengthen the Gentilly neighborhood and support its first responders. The project began in 2008 after organizers realized local first responders lacked funding for equipment and supplies. Since 2008, the nonprofit festival has been supporting local businesses and nonprofits while giving Gentilly residents a place to celebrate Gentilly's culture together.
Things to Know Before You Go
Gentilly Fest is free and open to the public. On Friday, it runs from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from noon to 9 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. Festival parking costs $25 per vehicle. Lawn chairs, blankets, and umbrellas are recommended. Outside food, drinks, coolers, and pets are not allowed. Service animals are permitted. VIP passes are available and include refreshments, beverages, and on-site parking for guests.
You can find additional information, including the full music lineup and festival details, on Gentilly Fest's website.
