National Fried Chicken Festival
Food and entertainment converge on the New Orleans Lakefront October 2-4 as the Fried Chicken Festival returns for its 10th year.
The festival kicks it up a notch as it celebrates its 10th anniversary, adding a third day and upgrading its music lineup with bigger names, showcasing a new focus on entertainment.
Fried Chicken Festival 2026 Music Lineup
Fried Chicken Festival is going national with its music lineup this year, inviting some of the biggest names in hip-hop and EDM to take the stage.
Nelly, known for hits "Hot in Here" and "Country Grammar," takes the top headliner spot while Atlanta rapper 2 Chainz, known for "No Lie" and "I'm Different", joins him as a second headliner.
Dillon Francis changes up the vibe as the hitmaker who has collaborated with Major Lazer, Skrillex, and Calvin Harris brings EDM to Fried Chicken Festival.
A-Trak adds to the electronic scene as well, bringing his World Champion turntablist abilities to the main stage.
Millennials will have a chance to relive their glory while Keri Hilson and the Ying Yang Twins bring their hits.
Despite the national lineup, the festival did not forget about local talent, welcoming Baton Rouge's Webbie and New Orleans' Big Freedia, who will team up with the Louisiana Philharmonic once again for a unique performance.
Fried Chicken Festival 5k Fun Run/Walk Returns
The Fried Chicken Festival is bringing back the 5k Run/Walk and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run after an overwhelming turnout at last year's inaugural event.
The 5k kicks off on Saturday, October 3 at 8:30 a.m. at Lakeshore Drive and Franklin Avenue right outside the festival gates. The 1 Mile Kids Run will follow at 10 a.m.
Registration options are available for single runners, groups, and teams.
The team with the most participants will be awarded a $1000 prize.
Single runners can choose one of two registration options: $50 for registration only and $75 for registration and festival admission. 5k registration for students and the 1 Mile Kids Fun Run is $30 per participant. Groups of five or more will receive a $5 discount per person.
More Than 40 Fried Chicken Vendors
Fried Chicken is still the main course at the festival, which brings together more than 40 of the region's best fried chicken restaurants.
Past vendors and award winners have included Bonafried, Gus's Fried Chicken, and The NOLA Chuckwagon.
The festival has not released the vendor lineup, so keep an eye on the festival's socials and website, friedchickenfestival.com, for updates on the release.
Fried Chicken Festival 2026 Tickets and Pricing
Using its newly added third day, Fried Chicken Festival will include a locals day on Friday, October 2, with discounted tickets starting at $21 for general admission and $70.61 for VIP, which includes one meal, three alcoholic beverages, premium stage viewing, and more.
Saturday and Sunday single-day tickets start at $70.61 for general admission and $228.24 for VIP. Weekend tickets start at $115.70 for general admission and $420.08 for VIP passes.
Attendees can add on a beer garden pass to any ticket; this includes unlimited pours, access to an air-conditioned space, and complimentary water and snacks.
Kids under 12 receive free admission and discounted VIP rates, and minors 13-17 receive discounted rates.
