NEW ORLEANS (August 05, 2026) — The 26th Annual Satchmo SummerFest, presented by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), brought two days of music, food and cultural programming to the New Orleans Jazz Museum on August 1-2. Marking 26 years since the festival’s founding, the celebration honored the life and legacy of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong through more than 25 live performances, indoor piano sessions, educational talks, and local cuisine.

“This year’s Satchmo SummerFest was a powerful tribute to the music, culture and community spirit of New Orleans,” said Emily Madero, President and CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “For 26 years, this festival has brought our community together to celebrate Louis Armstrong and the artists who continue to carry his influence forward and we are grateful for everyone who made this year’s event so special.”

Founded in 2001 to commemorate the centennial of Louis Armstrong’s birth, Satchmo SummerFest has grown into one of New Orleans’ most beloved cultural traditions. The festival celebrates his global influence while providing a platform for the musicians, scholars and culture bearers preserving and advancing New Orleans music. 

“Satchmo Summerfest is a celebration of everything that makes New Orleans unlike anywhere else in the world,” said Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans and Company. “Events like this not only honor our city’s rich heritage, but also generate demand for summer tourism and welcome visitors from around the world. We are proud to partner with FQFI and support a festival that continues to honor the legacy of Louis Armstrong.”  

The Spirit of Satchmo Echoes Through Every Note

Satchmo SummerFest’s 2026 lineup showcases the rich musical traditions of New Orleans, spanning traditional jazz, brass and marching bands, funk, R&B, and jazz fusion. The festival features a dynamic mix of hometown legends alongside artists making their Satchmo SummerFest debut. Delta Utilities returns as the sponsor of the Esplanade Avenue Stage, one of the festival’s two main outdoor stages.

New this year, the Friends of Fest Stage on Barracks Street celebrates the community spirit that has sustained Satchmo SummerFest for 26 years. Made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor committed to preserving New Orleans culture and free arts programming, the stage is designed to inspire others to invest in the future of Satchmo SummerFest and help ensure this cherished tradition remains vibrant, accessible, and free for generations to come. Festivalgoers are invited to become Friends of Fest by making a donation at satchmogive.fqfi.org or at any onsite donation station throughout the festival.

Saturday, Aug.1 brings Roots of Music, Preservation Brass, Troy Sawyer & The Elementz featuring Girls Play Trumpets Too, Joe Lastie’s Jazz to Brass, Assata Renay, Hasizzle with TBC Brass Band, the Lawrence Cotton Legendary Experience, Charmaine Neville, Jamil Sharif, Yusa, Jenna McSwain, and a tribute to blues pioneer Ma Rainey featuring Lars Edegran and Thais Clarke.

Sunday, Aug. 2 features the Treme Brass Band, Kid Merv & All That Jazz, Sir Chantz Powell & The Sound Of Funk, The Nayo Jones Experience, Don Vappie and Jazz Creole, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, John Boutté, Mari Watanabe & Chosen Few with Kevin Louis & Will Smith, Juice, Big 6 Brass Band, Linda Aubert, Tom Worrel, and John Royen & Tim Laughlin, closing out the weekend with the festival’s signature moment, Kermit Ruffins’ Tribute to Louis Armstrong.

Located inside the museum, the Fidelity Bank Piano Sessions Stage features intimate performances and provides festivalgoers the opportunity to explore the museum’s exhibitions while enjoying a break from the outdoor stages. 

DISHES AS RICH AS THE MUSIC: FESTIVAL FOOD HIGHLIGHTS

The music may have taken center stage, but the food gave festivalgoers plenty to celebrate between sets. Satchmo SummerFest’s culinary lineup brought together New Orleans classics, Caribbean flavors and creative festival dishes from some of the area’s favorite restaurants and vendors. . Through LCMC Health’s Keeping You Well initiative, attendees could also choose from preselected healthy menu items, making it easy to enjoy flavorful festival favorites while supporting healthier choices. 

Cafe Dauphine paid tribute to Armstrong by serving one of his favorite dishes, red beans and rice. The restaurant’s menu also featured fried green tomatoes and Cajun seafood eggrolls. Mrs. Wheat’s Pies returned with its signature meat and seafood pies and chicken and sausage jambalaya, while Southern’s drew crowds with its award-winning fried chicken and beer-battered fish sandwiches. .

International flavors also had a strong presence. Nori Guys served inventive dishes such as crab and shrimp wonton nachos and spicy tuna sushi tacos, while 14 Parishes offered Jamaican favorites including jerk chicken and jerk pork. Plum Street Snoballs kept attendees cool with a classic New Orleans treat, while festival beverage booths served refreshing drinks throughout the weekend. Proceeds from beverage sales help keep Satchmo SummerFest free and support the year-round cultural programming of French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

Sunday Traditions Continue the Celebration 

Sunday begins at 10 a.m. with the traditional Jazz Mass at historic St. Augustine Church in Tremé, featuring the Treme Brass Band. This year’s service marks a special milestone as the Jazz Mass returns to the church sanctuary for the first time in several years following restoration work, making the tradition even more meaningful for the congregation, the Tremé community and festivalgoers. 

Immediately following, festivalgoers are invited to join the Satchmo Salute Parade, a second line that begins at St. Augustine Church, travels down Esplanade Avenue and ends at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, where the festival’s final day gets underway. 

Honoring Satchmo Beyond the Stage: Jazz Mass, Salute Parade and Family Fun

Sunday began with one of Satchmo SummerFest’s most cherished traditions, the Jazz Mass at St. Augustine Church. This year’s celebration marked the Mass’s return to the sanctuary following repairs.

After the service, the Annual Satchmo Salute Parade stepped off from St. Augustine Church and traveled down Esplanade Avenue to the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Musicians, cultural groups, festival supporters and community members filled the streets in honor of Armstrong, with attendees encouraged to join the celebration in linen and seersucker.

The Jazz Mass and Satchmo Salute Parade have been central to Satchmo SummerFest since its earliest years, reflecting the deep connection between Armstrong’s legacy, the Tremé community and New Orleans’ musical traditions.

Keeping It Cool: Wellness, Accessibility and Festival Favorites Return

The Junior Zulus returned with free coconut-painting workshops on Saturday and Sunday, giving children and families an opportunity to learn about one of New Orleans’ most recognizable cultural traditions while creating a souvenir to take home.

Cooling areas, shaded seating and misting fans were available throughout the festival grounds to help attendees manage the summer heat thanks to Entergy New Orleans. Through support from LCMC Health, festivalgoers also had access to first aid services, complimentary sunscreen and wellness information.

These resources supported French Quarter Festivals, Inc.’s continued commitment to creating a welcoming and accessible festival experience for attendees of all ages and abilities.

Benny’s Sensory Activation Vehicle was on the grounds, providing a cool, quiet area for those who may have found the weekend’s festivities overstimulating at times, particularly our community members with sensory processing sensitivities.

As this unforgettable 26th anniversary of Satchmo SummerFest closes, French Quarter Festivals, Inc. invites fans to mark their calendars for our next celebration: New Orleans Eve on December 31. This free, family-friendly New Year’s Eve concert in the heart of the French Quarter will ring in 2027 with live local music, community spirit, and plenty of festive surprises.

Satchmo SummerFest will return to honor Louis Armstrong’s legacy with more music, joy, and tradition on July 31-August 1, 2027.

Sponsors and Community Partners

Satchmo SummerFest is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, community partners, and individual donors, whose investments help keep the festival free and accessible to all. This year, 48 unique volunteers filled 84 festival shifts, contributing more than 280 hours of service to support the event and welcome attendees throughout the weekend. Attendees are encouraged to support the festival by donating at festival gates or online at satchmosummerfest.org.

New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), New Orleans & Company, Delta Utilities, Friend of Fest, New Orleans Jazz Museum, Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation, LCMC Health, Entergy New Orleans, Omni Royal Orleans, The Folgers Coffee Company, Airbnb, WWL-Louisiana, Fidelity Bank, Abita Brewing Company, French Market District, JAX Brewery Parking Lots and The Berger Company, Music Performance Trust Fund and American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, The Helis Foundation, Pepsi,  New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Caymus Vineyards, Sea Sun Wines, Conundrum Wine, Brown-Forman, Jack Daniel’s, el Jimador Tequila, Diplomatico Rum, Danny & Alana Wolfe, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, T-Fiber, Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, Spotted Cat Music Club, DECOY, Beignet Fest Foundation, Luzianne Iced Tea, Renaissance Publishing, Nola.com, Clarion Herald,WWOZ, WWNO, and WGSO 

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

Satchmo SummerFest is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that also produces French Quarter Festival and Holidays New Orleans Style in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

Learn about the full FQFI team.

NEW ORLEANS (July 14, 2026) – Satchmo SummerFest presented by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF) returns for its 26th year on August 1-2 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the free, two-day festival honors the life and legacy of New Orleans’ own Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong with more than two dozen musical performances, a full lecture series, local food vendors, and free admission to the museum all weekend. 

Headliners include Kermit Ruffins’ Tribute to Louis Armstrong closing out the weekend Sunday night, Mark Braud’s All-Stars featuring Wendell Brunious, Paul Sanchez, and Kiki Chapman on the Friends of Fest Stage, Don Vappie and Jazz Creole on the Delta Utilities Stage, and Hasizzle with TBC Brass Band bringing bounce and brass together on Saturday.  

“Satchmo SummerFest reflects everything French Quarter Festivals, Inc. strives to do: celebrate New Orleans culture, support local artists and create memorable experiences that are accessible to everyone,” said Emily Madero, President & CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “For 26 years, the festival has honored Louis Armstrong’s extraordinary legacy while bringing people together through music, history and community.” 

Gates will be open 11:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. The weekend kicks off Saturday with the Satchmo Sound-Off, featuring The Roots of Music, and closes out Sunday with the Jazz Mass at St. Augustine Church followed by the Satchmo Salute Parade through Tremé and the French Quarter.

View the full schedule at satchmosummerfest.org.

Two Days, Four Stages, Every Shade of New Orleans Sound 

Satchmo SummerFest’s 2026 lineup showcases the rich musical traditions of New Orleans, spanning traditional jazz, brass and marching bands, funk, R&B, and jazz fusion. The festival features a dynamic mix of hometown legends alongside artists making their Satchmo SummerFest debut. Delta Utilities returns as the sponsor of the Esplanade Avenue Stage, one of the festival’s two main outdoor stages.

New this year, the Friends of Fest Stage on Barracks Street celebrates the community spirit that has sustained Satchmo SummerFest for 26 years. Made possible by the generosity of an anonymous donor committed to preserving New Orleans culture and free arts programming, the stage is designed to inspire others to invest in the future of Satchmo SummerFest and help ensure this cherished tradition remains vibrant, accessible, and free for generations to come. Festivalgoers are invited to become Friends of Fest by making a donation at satchmogive.fqfi.org or at any onsite donation station throughout the festival.

Saturday, Aug.1 brings Roots of Music, Preservation Brass, Troy Sawyer & The Elementz featuring Girls Play Trumpets Too, Joe Lastie’s Jazz to Brass, Assata Renay, Hasizzle with TBC Brass Band, the Lawrence Cotton Legendary Experience, Charmaine Neville, Jamil Sharif, Yusa, Jenna McSwain, and a tribute to blues pioneer Ma Rainey featuring Lars Edegran and Thais Clarke.

Sunday, Aug. 2 features the Treme Brass Band, Kid Merv & All That Jazz, Sir Chantz Powell & The Sound Of Funk, The Nayo Jones Experience, Don Vappie and Jazz Creole, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, John Boutté, Mari Watanabe & Chosen Few with Kevin Louis & Will Smith, Juice, Big 6 Brass Band, Linda Aubert, Tom Worrel, and John Royen & Tim Laughlin, closing out the weekend with the festival’s signature moment, Kermit Ruffins’ Tribute to Louis Armstrong.

Located inside the museum, the Fidelity Bank Piano Sessions Stage features intimate performances and provides festivalgoers the opportunity to explore the museum’s exhibitions while enjoying a break from the outdoor stages. 

The Satchmo Legacy Stage: Scholars, Stories, and Satchmo’s Enduring Influence

Beyond the music, the Satchmo Legacy Stage in Memory of Joni Berry has long been one of the festival’s signature traditions, drawing audiences to the museum’s third floor for thought-provoking conversations about Louis Armstrong’s life, music, and cultural impact. 

Saturday, Aug. 1 opens at noon with Dr. Robert Mikell on Armstrong’s international touring career in “Armstrong and His Music Across the Continents,” followed by Charanya Ramakrishnan’s “The Corona Collection,” drawn from interviews with Armstrong’s former neighbors. Jon Pult explores Armstrong’s decades on the airwaves in “Good Evening, Everybody on the Radio,” and Lisa La Touche examines his ties to tap dance, closing with a live performance, in “Intersections of Tap Dance with Louis Armstrong.” Louis Armstrong House Museum historian Ricky Riccardi closes the day at 4 p.m. with “Birth of the Hot: 100 Years of the Hot Five,” marking the 100th anniversary of Armstrong’s first Hot Five recording session. 

Sunday, August 2 begins with Adriana Carrillo’s “From Memphis to Paris on a Piano Stool,” on pianist and bandleader Lil Hardin Armstrong. At 1 p.m., Mosaic Records co-producers David Saeger, Scott Wenzel and Ricky Riccardi discuss the making of their upcoming boxed set, “Complete Louis in New York Sessions 1924-1925.” Sharone Carmona’s “Pops at the Movies” traces Armstrong’s lifelong relationship with film, and James Karst shares newly uncovered research in “Buddy Bolden’s Last Dance.” Riccardi returns at 4 p.m. to close the series with “All for You, Louis,” marking 70 years since Armstrong’s first trip to Ghana. 

The lecture series runs throughout both afternoons and gives attendees the opportunity to explore exhibits on display and a respite from the August heat.

The full artist lineup is available now at frenchquarterfest.org/satchmo-music/.

Sunday Traditions Continue the Celebration 

Sunday begins at 10 a.m. with the traditional Jazz Mass at historic St. Augustine Church in Tremé, featuring the Treme Brass Band. This year’s service marks a special milestone as the Jazz Mass returns to the church sanctuary for the first time in several years following restoration work, making the tradition even more meaningful for the congregation, the Tremé community and festivalgoers. 

Immediately following, festivalgoers are invited to join the Satchmo Salute Parade, a second line that begins at St. Augustine Church, travels down Esplanade Avenue and ends at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, where the festival’s final day gets underway. 

Local Flavors and Festival Favorites

Between performances, festivalgoers can enjoy a taste of New Orleans and beyond from nine local food vendors. Returning favorites include 14 Parishes, Nori Guys, Cafe Dauphine, Mrs. Wheat’s Pies, Southern’s and Plum St. Snoballs, serving everything from Caribbean specialties and Cajun seafood to award-winning fried chicken, savory hand pies and sweet treats. Making its Satchmo SummerFest debut this year, Rizzuto’s Ristorante & Chop House will serve Italian favorites, including pasta alla vodka, shrimp and watermelon salad, and cannoli.

Beyond the food, attendees can participate in one of the festival’s most beloved traditions with coconut painting workshops hosted by the Junior Zulu of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, Inc. The hands-on activity will take place Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., giving guests the opportunity to decorate and take home their own commemorative Zulu coconut.

Festivalgoers can also shop official Satchmo SummerFest merchandise throughout the weekend, including the 2026 lineup T-shirt, commemorative poster, koozies, bandanas and stickers.

Sponsors and Community Partners

Satchmo SummerFest is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, community partners, and individual donors, whose investments help keep the festival free and accessible to all. Attendees are encouraged to support the festival by donating at festival gates or online at satchmosummerfest.org.

New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), New Orleans & Company, Delta Utilities, Friend of Fest, New Orleans Jazz Museum, Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation, LCMC Health, Entergy New Orleans, Omni Royal Orleans, The Folgers Coffee Company, Airbnb, WWL-Louisiana, Fidelity Bank, Abita Brewing Company, French Market District, JAX Brewery Parking Lots and The Berger Company, Music Performance Trust Fund and American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, The Helis Foundation, Pepsi,  New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Caymus Vineyards, Sea Sun Wines, Conundrum Wine, Brown-Forman, Jack Daniel’s, el Jimador Tequila, Diplomatico Rum, Danny & Alana Wolfe, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, T-Fiber, Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, Spotted Cat Music Club, DECOY, Beignet Fest Foundation, Luzianne Iced Tea, Renaissance Publishing, Nola.com, Clarion Herald,WWOZ, WWNO, and WGSO 

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

Satchmo SummerFest is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that also produces French Quarter Festival and Holidays New Orleans Style in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

Learn about the full FQFI team.

NEW ORLEANS (June 16, 2026) – French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) proudly announces the 26th anniversary of Satchmo SummerFest, presented by the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF). Founded in 2001 to commemorate the centennial of Louis Armstrong’s birth, the festival has grown into a beloved New Orleans tradition celebrating the life, legacy, and unmistakable sound of Satchmo. This year’s festival returns to the New Orleans Jazz Museum on Aug.1–2, 2026, featuring two days of live music across multiple stages, engaging discussions with renowned Armstrong scholars and a variety of cultural experiences that honor one of the city’s most iconic ambassadors. The festival is free and open to the public. 

“Jazz was born in New Orleans, and this city is proof of what Louis Armstrong has given to the world,” said Emily Madero, President and CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “This year’s lineup showcases the living legacy of Armstrong’s influence, featuring artists who were inspired by his spirit of innovation and excellence.”

This year’s festival features debut performances from Sir Chantz Powell & The Sound Of Funk (S.O.F.), Jenna McSwain, and Linda Aubert, alongside beloved returning acts including Kermit Ruffins, John Boutté, The Original Pinettes Brass Band and Preservation Brass. Whether dancing outdoors under the tented stages or listening to intimate piano performances on the second floor of the Jazz Museum, attendees can expect a soundtrack as bold, joyful and unforgettable as Satchmo himself. 

“Satchmo SummerFest has always been more than a festival. It is a celebration of where jazz comes from and the city that gave it to the world,” said Lisa Alexis, President of the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF). “ Satchmo SummerFest enters its 26th year, we are proud to support an event that continues to bring world-class music to the streets of New Orleans, honor Armstrong’s extraordinary legacy, and energize our city during the summer season he loved most.”  

A new chapter for a new orleans tradition

Last year’s silver jubilee celebrated 25 years of honoring Louis Armstrong’s legacy. Now, the festival turns the page to its next chapter.

The 26th annual Satchmo SummerFest welcomes debut artists alongside familiar voices that have long defined the event, all performing at a newly renovated New Orleans Jazz Museum. As one of the city’s signature summer events, the festival also provides an economic boost to local businesses during one of New Orleans’ slower seasons.

Funded in part by the Herb Alpert Foundation and the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the museum has undergone significant upgrades, including a revamped performance center, enhanced outdoor spaces and improved visitor amenities, all befitting a festival built on the belief that jazz belongs to everyone.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. remains committed to making New Orleans culture accessible to all. In keeping with that mission, festivalgoers receive free admission to the New Orleans Jazz Museum throughout the weekend, offering a chance to explore the museum’s exhibits, galleries and rich history at no cost.

where satchmo’s spirit takes the stage: the musical lineup

The festival returns with two days of unforgettable music celebrating the legacy of Louis Armstrong and the city that shaped him. Across the Delta Utilities Stage, Satchmo Legacy Stage in Memory of Joni Berry and the intimate Fidelity Bank Piano Sessions inside the New Orleans Jazz Museum, festivalgoers will experience the sounds that define New Orleans, from traditional jazz and brass bands to funk, R&B and contemporary interpretations of the city’s rich musical traditions.

Saturday’s lineup features Roots of Music, Preservation Brass, Troy Sawyer & The Elementz featuring Girls Play Trumpets Too, Joe Lastie’s Jazz to Brass, Hasizzle with TBC Brass Band, Charmaine Neville, Lawrence Cotton Legendary Experience, Jamil Sharif, Yusa, Assata Renay, Jenna McSwain and a special Tribute to Ma Rainey featuring Lars Edegran and Thais Clarke.

The celebration continues Sunday, Aug. 2, with the annual Jazz Mass at St. Augustine Church at 10 a.m. The service returns to the church’s main sanctuary for the first time since Hurricane Ida, marking a significant homecoming at one of New Orleans’ most treasured landmarks. Following Mass, the Satchmo Parade will make its way through Tremé, celebrating Armstrong’s ties to the neighborhood where his musical journey began. 

Sunday’s lineup includes Kermit Ruffins’ Tribute to Louis Armstrong, John Boutté, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, Treme Brass Band, Big 6 Brass Band, Don Vappie and JAZZ CREOLE, Kid Merv & All That Jazz, Sir Chantz Powell & The Sound Of Funk (S.O.F.), The Nayo Jones Experience, Mari Watanabe & Chosen Few featuring Kevin Louis & Will Smith, Juice, Linda Aubert, Tom Worrall and John Royen & Tim Laughlin.

The full artist lineup is available now at frenchquarterfest.org/satchmo-music/.

stories, scholarship and the legacy of louis armstrong: satchmo legacy stage in memory of joni berry

Presented with support from The Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation and the Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, the Satchmo Legacy Stage in Memory of Joni Berry is dedicated to exploring the life, music and impact of Louis Armstrong through conversations, scholarship and storytelling.

This year’s lecture series features renowned historians, authors, archivists and artists examining Armstrong’s influence from New Orleans to the global stage. Highlights include Dr. Robert Mikell’s look at Armstrong’s role in popularizing jazz across six continents; Charanya Ramakrishnan’s collection of personal stories from neighbors who knew Louis and Lucille Armstrong in Corona, Queens; and Jon Pult’s exploration of Armstrong’s radio career. 

Lisa La Touche examines the intersection of tap dance and Armstrong’s artistry through archival research and live performance, while Ricky Riccardi presents multiple sessions, including a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Hot Five recordings and a retrospective on Armstrong’s historic 1956 visit to Ghana. Festival favorites David Sager, Scott Wenzel and Riccardi also offer a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Mosaic Records’ upcoming Complete Louis in New York Sessions 1924–1925 collection.

Additional presentations include Sharone Carmona’s exploration of Armstrong’s lifelong love of film and James Karst’s newly uncovered research on jazz pioneer Buddy Bolden. Together, these sessions invite festivalgoers to deepen their understanding of Armstrong’s remarkable legacy and lasting influence on music and culture.

made possible by our sponsors and partners

For over 40 years, French Quarter Festivals, Inc. has been proud to provide high-quality community events that are accessible to all. Programming is made possible by sponsorships and donations from community members, and supported by on-site beverage and merchandise sales. Sponsors for Satchmo Summerfest include:

New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), New Orleans & Company, Delta Utilities, Friend of Fest, New Orleans Jazz Museum, Joseph K. & Inez Eichenbaum Foundation, LCMC Health, Omni Royal Orleans, WWL-Louisiana, Fidelity Bank, Abita Brewing Company, French Market District, JAX Brewery Parking Lots and The Berger Company, Music Performance Trust Fund and American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, The Helis Foundation, Pepsi, New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, Caymus Vineyards, Sea Sun Wines, Conundrum Wine, Danny & Alana Wolfe, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation, Renaissance Publishing, Nola.com, Clarion Herald,WWOZ, WWNO, and WGSO 

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund in August and Holidays New Orleans Style Concert Series in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

Learn about the full FQFI team.

New Orleans (April 21, 2026) —French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) proudly celebrates the successful conclusion of the 2026 French Quarter Festival, which took place April 16-19 throughout the historic Vieux Carré. Over four days, the festival welcomed music lovers, food enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the region and beyond for a dynamic showcase of live performances, local cuisine, and authentic New Orleans culture. 

“New Orleans takes immense pride in its music, cuisine, and culture, and French Quarter Festival is a true reflection of that spirit,” said Emily Madero, President & CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “This year, we celebrated several special milestones, including PJ Morton’s long-awaited return to our stage, the debut of our new riverfront experience at Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Governor Nicholls Wharf, and the French Quarter Festival 5K presented by LCMC Health. Beautiful weather throughout all four days provided the perfect backdrop for an incredible lineup of local musicians, chefs and community partners who poured their hearts into this festival. We are deeply grateful to every volunteer, sponsor and fan who makes it possible to keep this celebration free and open to everyone.” 

While the energy of French Quarter Festival is most visible in the city, its impact reaches far beyond the crowds. As one of New Orleans’ signature cultural events, the festival plays a critical role in supporting the local economy, elevating Louisiana artists and culinary talent, and preserving the traditions that define the city’s cultural identity, particularly at a time when large-scale events face growing challenges. 

New Orleans in the Spotlight

French Quarter Festival once again positioned New Orleans on the global stage, generating more than $88 million in earned media coverage and driving widespread visibility for the city’s cultural economy. National and international media outlets across digital, television and radio platforms highlighted the festival’s impact, showcasing more than 1,700 local musicians and 75 food vendors to audiences around the world.

This level of exposure not only elevates the artists and small businesses that power the festival, but also translates into real economic impact for the city. During the festival weekend, hotel occupancy across New Orleans reached 94%, exceeding 2025 numbers, reflecting a strong influx of visitors and reinforcing the festival’s role in driving tourism and supporting the local hospitality industry. As tourism continues to play a critical role in the city’s economic recovery and growth, French Quarter Festival remains a key driver in attracting visitors, supporting local industry and reinforcing New Orleans’ reputation as a global capital of music, food and culture.

2026 French Quarter Festival Receives High Marks from Attendees

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. remains committed to producing high-quality experiences that celebrate New Orleans’ culture, heritage and creative community while fostering a deep sense of local pride. That connection continues to resonate with audiences.

71% of survey respondents rated the festival a perfect 10 out of 10, indicating they would highly recommend French Quarter Festival to friends, family, and visitors. This strong endorsement reflects not only the festival’s continued excellence, but also its role in strengthening community engagement, driving visitation and sustaining New Orleans’ cultural economy.

Fueling the Local Economy

For the city’s celebrated culinary community, the festival offers more than just exposure; it provides a vital opportunity for chefs and restaurants to preview seasonal menus, reach new audiences and generate significant income. The 75 independent food and beverage vendors participating in this year’s festival reported earnings of $4.3 million, providing a vital financial boost ahead of the slower summer months.

“Being part of French Quarter Fest was a huge moment for Nori Guys. The energy, the crowd and the support from the community were amazing,” said Nijel Pais, owner-operator of Nori Guys. “It gave us the opportunity to introduce our sushi tacos to such a diverse audience, and the response was overwhelming. We saw great turnout all weekend and made meaningful connections that will continue to grow our business. We’re truly grateful to be included in such an iconic New Orleans event.”

The Music That Moves Us

This year’s festival was a vibrant tapestry of sounds, flavors, and experiences that captured the essence of Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage. Grammy Award-winning New Orleans native PJ Morton delivered a long-awaited homecoming headline performance at the Abita Beer Stage on Berger Great Lawn, his first appearance at French Quarter Festival since 2014. The Abita Beer Stage also featured Dawn Richard, The Soul Rebels, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners, and Irvin Mayfield, among many others.

A defining highlight of the 2026 festival was the debut of Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Governor Nicholls Wharf, which introduced a stunning new green space along the Mississippi River and expanded the festival’s footprint in a way that felt both fresh and unmistakably New Orleans. The Jack Daniel’s Stage at Governor Nicholls Wharf delivered some of the weekend’s most electrifying performances, with sets from Irma Thomas, Bobby Rush, Big Freedia and Cupid and the Dance Party Express drawing crowds to the riverfront throughout the weekend. Nearby, the Pan-American Life Insurance Group Stage brought four full days of programming, featuring Bill Summers & Jazalsa and welcoming festival debuts from Leyla McCalla and Stanton Moore.

In the heart of the French Quarter, the NewOrleans.com Stage powered by New Orleans & Company in Jackson Square opened Thursday following the festival’s Opening Day Kickoff Parade and ran throughout the weekend, featuring New Orleans favorites Robin Barnes & The Fiya Birds, Charmaine Neville, John Bouttè and Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra.

The Willow Dispensary Stage brought high-energy sets across four days, with debut performances from T’Monde, B. Cam & The Zydeco Young Bucks and Yvette Landry & the Jukes, alongside returning favorites Brass-A-Holics, Sweet Crude and Amanda Shaw. The stage also hosted daily dance lessons, inviting festivalgoers to learn new moves while soaking in the music.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum hosted performances Friday through Sunday, with the Entergy Songwriter Stage spotlighting debut performances from Lisbon Girls, Kyle Alexander and Cristina Kaminis, and the Loyola University Esplanade in the Shade Stage showcasing more than a dozen brass bands, the debut of Casme and four sets from Loyola student performers. The Louisiana Fish Fry Stage, temporarily relocated to the riverfront in front of the Audubon Aquarium, served as a high-energy hub for DJs and brass bands, featuring DJ Poppa, ANTWIGADEE! and the Big 6 Brass Band. The KREWE Eyewear Stage at 600 Royal St. welcomed back the Capivaras Jazz Quartet, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers and Seva Venet’s Traditional Lineup.

Across 20 stages and the official parade, the festival presented 306 performances and 63 debuts, spanning traditional jazz, brass band, funk, R&B, Latin, zydeco and more.

A Feast for Every Palate

Recently voted one of USA Today’s 10 Best City Food This year’s highly coveted culinary lineup featured more than 75 celebrated restaurants and chefs from across Louisiana, reinforcing French Quarter Festival’s reputation as one of the region’s premier food destinations.

With six exciting debuts including Spicy Mango, Willie Mae’s and Chicken’s Kitchen, the festival demonstrated its ongoing commitment to welcoming new vendors pushing the boundaries of New Orleans’ culinary scene. Signature offerings included Loretta’s Pralines Crabmeat Beignets, 14 Parishes Jamaican Patty and Creole Country Cafe’s shrimp and crawfish seafood pasta in a parmesan garlic cream sauce, alongside returning favorites Fritai, Addis NOLA, Monday and TJ Gourmet.

The Mike’s Amazing Culinary Stage featured four days of exclusive one-on-one interviews with iconic local chefs and culinary personalities hosted by renowned Chef Kevin Belton. Social media influencers Lavelle Dunn and Kortlynn Jenae joined the stage for a special happy hour segment highlighting festival dishes and beverages. The Mike’s Amazing Airstream Café, located in the Jax Brewery Lot, served a curated Cuban-Creole menu throughout the weekend, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting festival programming.

On the beverage side, Abita Beer returned as a major festival sponsor alongside the debut of Upbeat Vodka, a new spirit from Abita making its French Quarter Fest premiere.

New Grounds, New Traditions

The weekend’s magical moments began with the beloved Opening Day Kickoff Parade on Thursday, April 16, where hundreds of fans strolled the streets led by the sounds of the Paulin Brothers Brass Band, New Wave Brass Band and more. As the parade concluded, Jackson Square transformed into a sea of onlookers awaiting the arrival of local dignitaries, the blessing of the weather and the official start of the 2026 French Quarter Festival.

This year also highlighted the French Quarter Festival 5K Run presented by LCMC Health, which took place Saturday, April 18. A total of 1,200 participants from 39 states and five countries laced up their sneakers for a scenic run along the riverfront, experiencing the festival grounds and the beauty of the Mississippi River in a whole new way before the stages opened for the day. Top honors went to Stephen Borutta and Megan Gohres, who led the pack in this year’s race. Runners received an official commemorative race shirt, a festival RFID card and early access to the festival grounds, making for a memorable morning before the music kicked off.

The new riverfront site at Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park gave families, first-time visitors and longtime fans alike a fresh way to experience the festival, with expansive green space, stunning views of the Mississippi River and easy access along the riverfront from Crescent Park to the foot of Esplanade Avenue.

Feeling Good on the Fest Grounds

This year, FQFI continued its wellness initiative through the “Keeping You Well” program in partnership with the festival’s official healthcare partner, LCMC Health. On-site healthcare providers offered comprehensive first aid services at strategic locations throughout the festival grounds. Key wellness offerings included free sunscreen dispensers, handheld fans, healthy eating options highlighted on festival menus through the LCMC Health heart logo and the return of the Touro LCMC Health Nursing Nest.

The festival continues to prioritize accessibility for all. FQFI maintained accessible viewing areas for attendees who use wheelchairs or have significant mobility challenges, as well as ADA-compliant portable restrooms, and Benny’s Sensory Activation Vehicle was on site, providing a welcoming space for guests with sensory processing considerations.

By the Community, For the Community

The enormous free four-day event is made possible through the generosity of committed volunteers. French Quarter Festivals, Inc. welcomed the support of over 400 volunteers and more than 100 generous sponsors to operate the four-day, 20-stage event. With 98% of production vendors based in Louisiana and a 100% local lineup of musicians and food vendors, the festival ensures that the majority of funds invested directly support the local community.

FQFI also remains committed to reducing the festival’s environmental footprint through its Geauxing Green sustainability program. In partnership with Keep Louisiana Beautiful, a state program that supports communities through litter prevention, recycling and waste reduction initiatives, French Quarter Festival continues to strengthen its approach to sustainable event operations. Through these efforts, the festival applies best practices in waste management to help prevent litter, increase recycling and protect Louisiana’s environment.

The Party Doesn’t Stop

The celebration continued each night after festival gates closed with FQF After Dark events at partnering venues throughout the French Quarter, featuring exclusive performances by festival artists and special food and beverage offerings. Now in its fourth year, the late-night series gave fans another opportunity to catch their favorite artists in intimate settings across some of New Orleans’ most iconic venues. The series kicked off Thursday, April 16, with a special FQF After Dark show featuring David Shaw at the House of Blues, keeping the music going after the festival closed on opening night. Friday, April 17, continued the celebration with Big Sam’s Funky Nation at Good Measure, 600 Carondelet St.

Festival attendees also had the opportunity to experience the opening of The First Piano Professors and Lost Music of Early New Orleans exhibit at the New Orleans Jazz Museum on Thursday, April 16, documenting the first generation of piano professors who helped shape the city’s musical identity before the jazz and rhythm and blues legends who followed. The Historic New Orleans Collection hosted Stories Behind the Sounds on April 16 and 18, an eclectic mix of discussions, performances and films exploring New Orleans’ musical heritage, from the deep connections between Cuba and New Orleans to the groundbreaking studio sessions that launched rock and roll.

Sponsors and Super Fans: Keeping the Festival Free for All

French Quarter Festivals Inc.’s grassroots fundraising effort at this year’s festival generated strong community support throughout the weekend. Festivalgoers embraced the opportunity to give as they were able, advancing the mission to produce festivals for all, supporting accessible, inclusive and authentic experiences that benefit artists, culture and community. With donations up 46% compared to 2025, the community showed up more than ever before to protect the tradition of a free, world-class festival rooted in the heart of New Orleans.

Together, these contributions raised $200,000, critical funding that supports performance fees for more than 300 acts representing thousands of local musicians, helps offset rising production and security costs and preserves free public access. As costs rise and community needs grow, grassroots support is essential to sustaining events like French Quarter Festival and creating more opportunities for the artists and musicians behind them.

With broad-based participation, FQFI can continue to center the people who power the cultural economy, creating meaningful opportunities for local artists, enhancing quality of life and delivering world-class, inclusive programming that remains accessible to all.

French Quarter Fest Sponsors Include:

Abita Brewing Company, Aetna Better Health of Louisiana, Airbnb, Baker Donelson, The Barnett, The Bec-Croche Giving Fund, Beignet Fest Foundation, The Berger Company, Blue Bikes, Brown-Forman, Café Beignet, Capital Vacations, Caymus Vineyards, Chevron, Collins C. Diboll Private Foundation, DECOY, Delta Utilities, The Derbes Foundation, Diplomatico Rum, el Jimador Tequila, Emmolo, Entergy, Fidelity Bank, Fords Gin, French Market Corporation, Friend Of Fest, Funny Bird, Hancock Whitney, The Helis Foundation, Historic New Orleans Collection, House Of Blues, Hornbeck Offshore, I.T.S Fire Alarm Security, Jack Daniel’s, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, KREWE,The Law Office of John W. Redmann, LLC, LCMC Health, Louisiana Fish Fry, Louisiana Lottery Corporation, Louisiana Office of Tourism, Loyola University, Luzianne Iced Tea, McLoughlin Family Foundation, Mike’s Amazing, The MISI, Music Performance Trust Fund & American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz Museum, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Service, New Orleans School of Cooking, New Orleans Steamboat Company, New Orleans Tourism And Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), NOLA.com, Omni Royal Orleans, Pan-American Life Insurance Group, Park First, Pepsi, The Plant Gallery, Port of New Orleans & New Orleans Public Belt, The Reeves Family, RosaMary Foundation, Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Sal Borelli, Sea Sun Wines, Tropical Isle, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, The Westin New Orleans, Willow Pharmacy, The Windsor Court, Woody and Kathy Jay,  WWL-Louisiana, and YPO.

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund in August and Holidays New Orleans Style Concert Series in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

Learn about the full FQFI team.

French Quarter Festival 2026 unveils full music lineup, culinary delights, and exciting highlights

April 16-19, 2026

New Orleans (March 16, 2026) —  French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) is pulling out all the stops for French Quarter Festival 2026, April 16-19, delivering four days of world-class local music, iconic New Orleans cuisine and the community spirit that makes this city unlike anywhere else on earth. With 302 performances and 45 debuts across 20 stages and the official parade, Grammy Award-winning headliners, a brand-new riverfront experience, over 70 local culinary vendors and the French Quarter Festival 5K Run presented by LCMC Health, this year’s festival is the biggest and boldest yet.

Grammy Award-winning New Orleans native PJ Morton headlines the Abita Beer Stage on Berger Great Lawn, while the festival debuts an expansive new riverfront experience at Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Governor Nicholls Wharf, giving attendees even more green space to enjoy live music along the Mississippi River.

“French Quarter Festival 2026 is an exciting year for us,” said Emily Madero, president and CEO of FQFI. “With PJ Morton coming back after 12 years, the debut of the Governor Nicholls Wharf Park and hundreds of local artists and chefs taking center stage. This year’s festival is bolder and more unmistakably New Orleans than ever. We can’t wait to welcome locals and visitors to the Quarter.”

The beloved After Dark concert series returns this year, and the French Quarter Fest app has been updated to help attendees plan their perfect weekend. The latest version, now available for download on both Android and iPhone, makes it easier than ever to navigate stages, explore food options and build a personal schedule.

Kicking off the four-day celebration, fans are invited to join festival organizers, sponsors and partners for the Annual French Quarter Festival Kickoff Parade on Thursday, April 16, at 10 a.m  featuring the Paulin Brothers Brass Band, New Wave Brass Band and more. The parade departs from the 200 block of Bourbon Street and winds through the French Quarter to Jackson Square for the opening ceremony at the NewOrleans.com Stage.

Returning in 2026, the French Quarter Festival 5K Race presented by LCMC Health takes place April 18 at 8 a.m., inviting runners and walkers to experience the riverfront in a whole new way. While FQFI has hosted runs in the past, the 5K makes its long-awaited return after an extended hiatus, offering a fresh opportunity for the community to engage with the festival beyond the music stages. Participants receive an official commemorative race shirt, a $10 RFID festival card and early access to festival grounds. Registration prices increase March 28. Register at runsignup.com/fqf5k .

hundreds of local performances across 20 stages

This year’s 100% local music lineup spans traditional jazz, brass band, funk, R&B, Latin, Zydeco and more, with something for every festivalgoer. Updated stage locations and expanded opening day programming mean more music than ever before.

A standout for 2026, the Willow Dispensary Stage shines with high-energy sets throughout the four day weekend. Debut artists include T’Monde, B. Cam & The Zydeco Young Bucks, and Yvette Landry & the Jukes, alongside returning favorites such as Brass-A-Holics, Sweet Crude and Amanda Shaw. The stage will also host daily dance lessons, inviting festivalgoers to learn new moves while soaking in the music.

A major highlight of this year’s expanded footprint is Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Governor Nicholls Wharf, where both the Pan-American Life Insurance Group Stage and the Jack Daniel’s Stage will anchor a vibrant new riverfront experience. The Jack Daniel’s stage shines with performances by Irma Thomas,  Bobby Rush, Big Freedia and Cupid and the Dance Party Express. The Pan-American Life Insurance Group Stage features Bill Summers & Jazalsa, and will also showcase exciting debuts by Leyla McCalla as well as Stanton Moore. 

The Abita Beer Stage at Berger Great Lawn, brings some of the weekend’s biggest names, including Grammy Award-winner PJ Morton, Dawn Richard, The Soul Rebels, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, George Porter Jr. & Runnin’ Pardners and Irvin Mayfield, among many others.

In the heart of the French Quarter, the NewOrleans.com Stage powered by New Orleans & Company in Jackson Square opens Thursday following the festival’s opening ceremony and runs throughout the weekend, featuring New Orleans favorites Robin Barnes & The Fiya Birds, Charmaine Neville, and Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra. 

The New Orleans Jazz Museum will host one stage Friday through Sunday due to ongoing construction, with free admission during the festival. Inside on the third floor, the Entergy Songwriter Stage spotlights debut performances from Lisbon Girls, Kyle Alexander and Cristina Kaminis. Outside on Esplanade Street, the Loyola Esplanade in the Shade Stage showcases more than a dozen brass bands, the debut of Casme and four sets from Loyola student performers, including the Loyola University Commercial Ensemble.

The festival brings music and dancing to the French Quarter neighborhood with the return of the French Market Traditional Jazz Stage, which also features free dance lessons, and the French Market Dutch Alley Stage, both located in the French Market District. Additional stages return Saturday and Sunday on Royal and Bourbon streets, including the Café Beignet Stage at Musical Legends Park, Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta New Orleans, the Omni Royal Orleans Stage and Hancock Whitney Stage. 

Rounding out the lineup, KREWE Eyewear returns as the official eyewear of French Quarter festival, with its stage at 600 Royal Street welcoming back Capivaras Jazz Quartet, The New Orleans Jazz Vipers and Seva Venet’s Traditional Lineup. Free dance lessons, sponsored by the French Market Corporation, take place throughout the weekend at both the Willow Dispensary Stage and the French Market Traditional Jazz Stage. 

The complete music schedule is now available at frenchquarterfest.org/music.

275+ culinary experiences showcasing the best of new orleans FLAVOR

Few festivals can match French Quarter Fest when it comes to food, and 2026 is no exception. More than 70 local culinary vendors serve up over 275 dishes celebrating the city’s diverse and deeply rooted food culture, from longtime festival staples to exciting new arrivals.

Signature offerings include Loretta’s Pralines Crabmeat Beignets, 14 Parishes Jamaican Patty and Creole Country Cafe’s Seafood Pasta, a shrimp and crawfish dish in a parmesan garlic cream sauce. New this year, Spicy Mango joins the lineup serving an oxtail melt, while local favorite Willie Mae’s debuts their famous fried chicken. Chicken’s Kitchen also debuts at the festival, joining returning favorites Fritai, Addis NOLA, Monday and TJ Gourmet.

At the Mike’s Amazing Culinary Stage in Woldenberg Riverfront Park on the Kohlmeyer Lawn, renowned Chef Kevin Belton hosts four days of exclusive one-on-one interviews with iconic local chefs and culinary personalities. Social media influencer Lavelle Dunn takes the stage Saturday, April 18, for a special “happy hour” segment highlighting festival dishes and beverages. The Mike’s Amazing Airstream Cafe, located in the Jax Brewery Lot, serves a curated Cuban-Creole menu throughout the weekend, and 100 percent of proceeds from all Airstream sales go directly to FQFI to support festival programming.

On the beverage side, Abita Beer returns as a major festival sponsor alongside the debut of Upbeat Vodka, a new spirit from Abita making its French Quarter Fest premiere. Festival beverage booths serve cocktails featuring Jack Daniel’s, Fords Gin, Diplomatico Rum, el Jimador Tequila and Korbel California Champagne, with wines from Caymus Vineyards, Emmolo and Sea Sun, plus White Claw Vodka. Non-alcoholic options include Pepsi products, Gatorade and Aquafina water throughout the grounds.

LCMC Health’s Keeping You Well program helps festivalgoers feel their best all weekend long. Look for the LCMC Health heart logo on select menu items throughout the festival for lighter options still packed with New Orleans flavor, and stay hydrated with water available at official festival beverage booths all weekend long.

A complete list of confirmed culinary vendors is available at frenchquarterfest.org/food.

ELEVATED FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

FQFI is committed to keeping the festival free and open to the public. Super fans can purchase VIP packages to support the organization’s mission while gaining access to exclusive VIP experiences. The Fest Family VIP Plus grants prime viewing spots for an up-close and personal musical experience at four front-of-stage locations.

Fest Family VIP members also enjoy private bars with three complimentary drinks per day at four different VIP locations (and the option to redeem at all festival beverage locations), air-conditioned restrooms, exclusive perks, and more. VIPs can add the convenience of a 4-Day Parking Pass, ensuring that arrival is seamless and stress-free. This year, the program will offer four-day weekend passes for $469 or single-day passes for $169. A limited number of passes are available and help to fund the free, local event. Fans can join and support the fest by purchasing passes today at frenchquarterfest.org/fest-family.

OFFICIAL 2026 POSTER AND FESTIVAL MERCH

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is proud to spotlight local artist Anne Lipscomb as the official 2026 French Quarter Fest poster artist, while also unveiling the full 2026 merchandise collection, now available for purchase. A multidisciplinary artist working in digital illustration, watercolor, and pencil, Lipscomb blends storytelling, sense of place, and contemporary design. The 2026 commemorative poster is best described as New Orleans Modern Art Nouveau, drawing inspiration from classic art nouveau forms and movement, reimagined through a distinctly local lens. Bold, rhythmic and celebratory, the design captures the energy, culture, and spirit that define both the festival and the city.

“This piece is a love letter to the rhythm of New Orleans and the community that makes French Quarter Fest so special,” said Lipscomb. “I wanted it to feel vibrant, alive, and unmistakably rooted in place.” The official poster anchors this year’s expanded merchandise line, featured on commemorative prints, festival T-shirts, and additional 2026 apparel and accessories. Posters are priced at $35, with commemorative poster T-shirts available for $33. Fans can shop presale items now at shop.fqfi.org and secure a piece of the 2026 French Quarter Fest collection. Shop full 2026 merch lineup at shop.fqfi.org.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS AND SPECIAL EVENTS

• FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL 5K Run presented by LCMC Health | Saturday, April 18; 8am
  Kick off festival weekend with the French Quarter Festival 5K Run presented by LCMC Health. The scenic route offers participants a unique way to experience the festival before the grounds open. Runners receive official race gear and post-race access to festival festivities. Registration and additional race details are available at runsignup.com/fqf5k .

• FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL KICKOFF PARADE | Thursday, April 16; 10am
  The parade departs from the 200 block of Bourbon Street and proceeds through the French Quarter to Jackson Square, where the Opening Ceremony will take place.

• FREE DANCE LESSONS PRESENTED BY FRENCH MARKET CORPORATION | April 16-19 at various times
  Festivalgoers can learn classic dance styles throughout the weekend with free dance lessons sponsored by the French Market Corporation. Lessons will take place at both the French Market Traditional Jazz Stage and the Willow Dispensary Stage.
• FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL AFTER DARK | Friday, Apr 17 | 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM (doors open at 8pm)
  When the festival stages close, music continues with the return of the FQF After Dark series. Now in its fourth year, the late-night lineup features exclusive performances at some of New Orleans’s most iconic venues, giving fans another opportunity to catch their favorite artists in an intimate setting. Full details and ticket information can be found at frenchquarterfest.org/special-events.
  
  Friday, Apr 17 | 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM (doors at 8pm)
  Big Sam’s Funky Nation
  Good Measure, 600 Carondelet St.
  Purchase tickets here. 
• THE FIRST PIANO PROFESSORS: NEW ORLEANS JAZZ MUSEUM EXHIBIT OPENING | Thursday, April 16; 6pm-8pm
  The First Piano Professors and Lost Music of Early New Orleans, opening at The New Orleans Jazz Museum documents the first generation of “piano professors” before the jazz and rhythm & blues legends who came in their wake, including Jelly Roll Morton, James Booker, and Fats Domino. The exhibition limns the lively world of musicians, publishers and engravers instrumental in shaping New Orleans in the early 1800s and presents the lost music of the pre-recording era from artists Basile Barès, Edmond Dédé, William T. Francis, Louis Moreau Gottschalk, Theodore von La Hache, the Lambert Family, and Maurice Strakosch among others.
• STORIES BEHIND THE SOUNDS: CELEBRATE MUSIC HISTORY AT HNOC | April 16 & 18 at various times
  Visit the Historic New Orleans Collection to revel in the sounds that changed the world through an eclectic mix of discussions, performances, and films. From the deep connections between Cuba and New Orleans to the groundbreaking studio sessions that launched rock & roll, HNOC explores our famous musical heritage during French Quarter Fest.

• CASHLESS FESTIVAL: French Quarter Festival will remain completely cashless in 2026
  All food, beverage, and merchandise booths will accept major credit cards and digital payments, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, making transactions faster, safer, and more convenient for everyone.For guests who do not have access to cashless payment methods, FQFI will provide an on-site cash exchange station located in the heart of the festival footprint at Jax Lot, 500 Decatur Street, where cash can be converted to a prepaid card for use throughout the event

• VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Volunteer registration is now open. Volunteers play a vital role in the festival’s success and receive exclusive benefits, including a collectible festival t-shirt, beverage tickets, entries into a festival merchandise raffle, and more. For additional details or to apply, visit frenchquarterfest.org/volunteers.

SPONSORS AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT MAKE THE FESTIVAL POSSIBLE

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is proud of its 42-year history of delivering world-class community events that celebrate the best of New Orleans for locals and visitors alike.To support long-term sustainability, FQFI is launching its first full-scale grassroots fundraising effort during the festival. Admission remains free, and attendees are invited to give as they are able. A suggested donation of $5 for Fest will help maintain the volume and quality of cultural experiences the community relies on. Rising production and security costs, reduced public funding, and growing community need make new funding approaches essential. Contributions will directly fund paid performance opportunities for approximately 1,800 local musicians while keeping the festival accessible to all.

Donations can be made online or in person throughout the festival weekend. Attendees can scan the $5 for Fest QR code or connect with Donation Team members at major sites. Additional ways to give include tipping at official beverage booths and opting into a round-up contribution at points of sale. Every dollar supports local musicians, strengthens cultural traditions, and helps ensure inclusive programming remains a shared community experience for generations to come.

French Quarter Fest Sponsors Include:

Abita Brewing Company, Aetna Better Health of Louisiana, Airbnb, Baker Donelson, The Barnett, The Bec-Croche Giving Fund, Beignet Fest Foundation, The Berger Company, Blue Bikes, Brown-Forman, Café Beignet, Capital Vacations, Caymus Vineyards, Chevron, Collins C. Diboll Private Foundation, DECOY, Delta Utilities, The Derbes Foundation, Diplomatico Rum, el Jimador Tequila, Emmolo, Entergy, Fidelity Bank, Fords Gin, French Market Corporation, Friend Of Fest, Funny Bird, Hancock Whitney, The Helis Foundation, Historic New Orleans Collection, House Of Blues, Hornbeck Offshore, I.T.S Fire Alarm Security, Jack Daniel’s, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, KREWE,The Law Office of John W. Redmann, LLC, LCMC Health, Louisiana Fish Fry, Louisiana Lottery Corporation, Louisiana Office of Tourism, Loyola University, Luzianne Iced Tea, McLoughlin Family Foundation, Mike’s Amazing, The MISI, Music Performance Trust Fund & American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz Museum, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Service, New Orleans School of Cooking, New Orleans Steamboat Company, New Orleans Tourism And Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), NOLA.com, Omni Royal Orleans, Pan-American Life Insurance Group, Park First, Pepsi, The Plant Gallery, Port of New Orleans & New Orleans Public Belt, The Reeves Family, RosaMary Foundation, Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Sal Borelli, Sea Sun Wines, Tropical Isle, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, The Westin New Orleans, Willow Pharmacy, The Windsor Court, Woody and Kathy Jay,  WWL-Louisiana, and YPO.

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund in August and Holidays New Orleans Style Concert Series in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

Learn about the full FQFI team.

PJ MORTON TO HEADLINE FRENCH QUARTER FESTIVAL 2026
New Community Partnerships Deepen Festival’s Commitment to Louisiana Music and Culture

New Orleans (Feb. 19, 2026) — French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) today announced that Grammy Award-winning New Orleans native PJ Morton will headline the 2026 French Quarter Festival. Morton leads an expansive lineup of Louisiana talent including legends like Bobby Rush and the Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars who are set to perform April 16 through 19.

Morton has not performed at French Quarter Festival since 2014, making his 2026 headlining appearance a highly anticipated homecoming. Since his last performance at the festival, Morton has earned multiple Grammy Awards and international acclaim while continuing to champion the rich musical traditions of his hometown.

“New Orleans raised me musically, spiritually and creatively,” said PJ Morton, a Grammy Award-winning artist. “I haven’t performed at French Quarter Festival since 2014, so returning to headline feels full circle. No matter where I go in the world, this city is home, and there’s nothing like bringing our music back to the community in a space that’s free and open to everyone.”

Investing in Free Music for Everyone

This year, the network of support behind French Quarter Festival is growing. FQFI announced that Airbnb has joined as a Music Performance Sponsor, supporting the more than 1700 Louisiana artists who will take the stage during the four-day celebration. Their sponsorship of French Quarter Festival builds on a larger citywide commitment, helping ensure that live music stays free and accessible to residents and visitors alike.

“New Orleans has a soul you can’t find anywhere else, and musicians are the heart of it,” said Nia Brown, Public Policy Manager at Airbnb. “We’re proud to support a festival that keeps this culture accessible and rooted in the community. Investing in live music is one way we can help support what makes this city so special.”

Airbnb joins a strong network of partners who help sustain the festival’s performance program. Cornerstone investments from longtime partners such as the Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF), American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, the Helis Foundation, and the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation (NOTCF)  play a critical role in ensuring musicians are compensated while performances remain free to the public. 

Returning sponsor Mike’s Amazing will also support the festival’s music mission through its Mike’s Amazing Airstream Café in the Jax Brewery Lot. A curated Cuban-Creole menu will be served throughout the weekend, and 100 percent of proceeds from all Airstream sales will be donated to FQFI to support programming.

“Producing a free, four-day festival of this scale requires both community and corporate partnership,” said Emily Madero, President and CEO of French Quarter Festivals, Inc. “From national brands to long-standing arts funders and local supporters, these investments ensure we can continue our mission of keeping the festival open to everyone.”

Join the Celebration

French Quarter Festival returns April 16-19, 2026. More than 1,700 local musicians are expected to perform during this year’s festival, reinforcing FQFI’s ongoing commitment to providing paid performance opportunities and sustaining New Orleans’ cultural economy. As traditional funding sources shift and production costs rise, FQFI invites community-minded individuals and organizations to participate through performance sponsorships or contributions of any amount. 

The 2026 festival also features the work of official poster artist Anne Lipscomb, whose commemorative designs are currently available for presale online. Additional artist announcements and full culinary menus will be announced in the coming weeks. For more information, visit frenchquarterfest.org.

French Quarter Fest Sponsors Include:

Abita Brewing Company, Airbnb, Baker Donelson, The Bec-Croche Giving Fund, The Berger Company, Brown-Forman, Café Beignet, Capital Vacations, Caymus Vineyards, Chevron, Collins C. Diboll Private Foundation, The Derbes Foundation, Diplomatico Rum, el Jimador Tequila, Emmolo, Fords Gin, French Market Corporation, Friend Of Fest, Funny Bird, Hancock Whitney, The Helis Foundation, Historic New Orleans Collection, House Of Blues, Hornbeck Offshore, I.T.S Fire Alarm Security, Jack Daniel’s, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, KREWE, LCMC Health, Louisiana Fish Fry, Luzianne Iced Tea, McLoughlin Family Foundation, Mike’s Amazing, Music Performance Trust Fund & American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz Museum, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Service, New Orleans Steamboat Company, New Orleans Tourism And Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), NOLA.com, Omni Royal Orleans, Pan-American Life Insurance Group, Pepsi, The Plant Gallery, The Reeves Family, RosaMary Foundation, Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Sal Borelli, Sea Sun Wines, Tropical Isle, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, Willow Pharmacy, Woody and Kathy Jay, and WWL-Louisiana

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

French Quarter Festival is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund in August and Holidays New Orleans Style Concert Series in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

French Quarter Festival Returns April 16-19 at a New Riverfront Park, Bringing More Music and a 5K Run 

April 16-19, 2026

New Orleans (Feb. 3, 2026) — French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) announced highlights for the 2026 French Quarter Festival, the nation’s largest free celebration of Louisiana music, food and culture. The four-day festival returns to the French Quarter from April 16–19, 2026, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience live music, local cuisine and the unmistakable spirit of New Orleans.

“Each year, French Quarter Festival brings the culture of New Orleans to life in a way that feels both authentic and welcoming,” said Emily Madero, president and CEO of FQFI. “We’re excited to be expanding our footprint and look forward to welcoming our community to celebrate the music, food and traditions that make the French Quarter unlike anywhere else.”

What’s new in 2026

A Bigger Festival Footprint, Expanded Music Programming, and a New 5K run

French Quarter Festival 2026 marks a year of exciting growth and expansion, bringing more music, more flavor, and more ways to experience the festival than ever before. As the festival and the city continue investing in the future of the French Quarter, this year introduces thoughtful changes that enhance the attendee experience while honoring the historic neighborhood that makes the event so special.

This year, the festival footprint expands along the Mississippi River with a new site in Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park at Governor Nicholls Wharf. “Expanding access to the riverfront from Crescent Park offers locals and visitors an unmatched view of the Mississippi River,” said Michael J. Sawaya, chief executive officer of Audubon Nature Institute and L. Ronald Forman Chair of Conservation Leadership. “We look forward to partnering with French Quarter Festival to introduce this beautiful park to the community.”

The new riverfront park site adds green space and opens additional programming opportunities along the Mississippi River. Guests can enter along the riverfront or access the park at the foot of Esplanade Avenue, adjacent to the French Market and New Orleans Jazz Museum.

Music lovers can look forward to more live music than ever before, including additional Thursday performances. This year, several stages will appear in new locations. The Pan-American Life Insurance Group Stage will return in 2026 at Governor Nicholls Park at the foot of Esplanade, and will feature four full days of programming.

Due to construction at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, the Louisiana Fish Fry Stage will temporarily move to the riverfront in front of the Audubon Aquarium. The stage will highlight an expanded mix of DJs and brass bands, adding a strong street music presence to the festival footprint. Its schedule will also extend to four days.

The House of Blues Voodoo Garden Stage will further expand the music lineup with four full days of stage programming and a special Thursday night FQF After Dark show at the iconic venue, keeping the music going after the festival closes on opening night. Festival-goers can also visit the House of Blues Fest Family VIP Lounge in Jax Lot throughout the weekend, styled in the venue’s signature look for an immersive on-site experience.

As the New Orleans Jazz Museum undergoes exciting updates, it will remain a major festival site, hosting programming Friday through Sunday, including performances at the Loyola University Esplanade in the Shade Stage and the Songwriter Stage.

Expanding how attendees experience the festival beyond music and food, French Quarter Festival will introduce a 5K race in 2026. Taking place Saturday, April 18, the race will combine fitness, community, and celebration through the French Quarter. Registration opens Feb. 3, with details available at https://runsignup.com/fqf5k.

2026 Musical Lineup Sneak Preview

300+ acts, including returning favorite Irma Thomas, Soul Queen of New Orleans and festival debuts Dawn

This year’s festival promises an expansive lineup of more than 300 performances, blending beloved local icons with highly anticipated debuts. Returning favorites include Irma Thomas, the Soul Queen of New Orleans ,Hasizzle with TBC Brass Band, Cyril Neville, and Sally Baby’s Silver Dollars along with a highly anticipated debut from Dawn Richard. The lineup reflects the depth and diversity of Louisiana’s musical landscape, with genres ranging from jazz, funk, soul, rock, zydeco and beyond.

Festival premieres this year include nationally acclaimed singer Bobby Rush, soul and funk group Sir Chantz Powell & The Sound Of Funk (S.O.F.), and Kyle Roussel’s Church of New Orleans, a leading voice in New Orleans music. Additional first-time performers include rising regional favorites Victor Campbell & Timba Swamp, T’Monde, B. Cam & The Zydeco Young Bucks, Yvette Landry & the Jukes, and Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. and the Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band. Genre-spanning acts making their festival debut include R & R Smokin’ Foundation, LSD Clownsystem, Lily Unless and The If Onlys, The River Benders, and Ashton Hines and the Big Easy Brawlers.

The Louisiana Fish Fry Stage becomes a high-energy hub that showcases the best of New Orleans Brass and DJ talent in a combined footprint this year, featuring crowd favorite DJ Poppa, known for his legendary bounce mixes, alongside traditional New Orleans brass band performances by the Big 6 Brass Band.

The Jack Daniel’s Stage moves downriver at Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park with a powerhouse lineup including Cupid & the Dance Party Express, Irma Thomas and Big Freedia.

More additions to the lineup will be announced late February. A full list of currently confirmed musical performances is available at frenchquarterfest.org/music. The complete festival schedule will be announced in March.

Savor the Flavors: Over 275 Culinary Experiences

Food remains at the heart of the festival experience, with new culinary vendors including Chicken’s Kitchen joining longtime favorites and bringing fresh flavors to the festival’s iconic food lineup. Attendees can savor more than 275 menu items, with longtime staples like Vaucresson Sausage and Ms. Linda the Yakamein Lady returning alongside standout spots including Thai Nola, Southern’s, Dickie Brennan’s Bourbon House, and Loretta’s Authentic Pralines, offering a diverse range of unforgettable bites.

The Mike’s Amazing Culinary Stage also returns with live cooking demonstrations and storytelling that celebrate New Orleans’ rich food traditions. The Mike’s Amazing team will be on site sharing bold, flavor-forward recipes and pairing ideas designed to complement signature festival dishes. 

Keeping the flavor going, Abita returns as a major festival sponsor, bringing a variety of well-known local flavors to this year’s celebration along with the debut of their Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, a refreshing new vodka-based ready-to-drink beverage launching at this year’s festival.

Festivalgoers can also enjoy a wide selection of spirits and mixed cocktails available at beverage booths throughout the grounds, featuring Jack Daniel’s, Fords Gin, Diplomático Rum, and el Jimador Tequila. Wine offerings include selections from Caymus Vineyards, Emmolo, and Sea Sun Wines.

A full list of confirmed culinary vendors is available at frenchquarterfest.org/food. The full festival menu will be announced in March.

Merchandise and Commemorative Poster Unveiling

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. announced local artist Anne Lipscomb as the official 2026 French Quarter Fest poster artist. A multidisciplinary artist working in digital illustration, watercolor, and pencil, Lipscomb creates work that blends storytelling, sense of place, and contemporary design.

The 2026 commemorative poster is best described as New Orleans Modern Art Nouveau, drawing inspiration from classic art nouveau forms and movement, filtered through a distinctly local lens. Bold, rhythmic, and celebratory, the design reflects the energy, diversity, and spirit of the festival and the city it calls home.

“After growing up visiting New Orleans, I’ve now called the city home for over a decade,” said Lipscomb. “I’m drawn to the way it lives and breathes in its own distinct rhythm. My work for the 2026 French Quarter Festival celebrates the people, movement, and moments that make this city special.”

The poster design will also be featured on a commemorative festival shirt, both available for purchase through the festival shop. Posters are priced at $35, with commemorative poster T-shirts available for $33, offering fans near and far the opportunity to take home a piece of the 2026 French Quarter Festival. Shop poster and tshirt presales at shop.fqfi.org.

VIP PASSES AVAILABLE NOW

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is committed to keeping the festival free and open to the public. Fans can support that mission by purchasing Fest Family VIP passes, which offer access to exclusive amenities and premium viewing experiences throughout the festival weekend.

Fest Family VIP members enjoy access to private hospitality areas at four VIP locations, featuring private bars with three complimentary drinks per day, air-conditioned restrooms, shaded seating and additional perks designed to elevate the festival experience. VIPs may also enhance their experience with optional add-ons, including a four-day parking pass for convenient and stress-free access.

For attendees seeking the ultimate close-up experience, Front-of-Stage Access Passes are available, providing prime viewing areas at select stages to enjoy performances up close.

Four-day Fest Family weekend passes are available for $480, with single-day passes offered at $160. A limited number of passes are available, and proceeds directly support the production of the free, locally focused festival. Additional details and passes are available at frenchquarterfest.org/fest-family.

Give a little, groove a lot!

FQFI invites community to support live music that powers French Quarter Festival

Each year, French Quarter Festival presents more than 300 performances by Louisiana artists, providing a world-class platform for the musicians who define New Orleans’ sound and culture.Although the festival generates revenue through sponsorships and beverage sales, production costs exceed what the event can raise on its own. In 2026, French Quarter Festivals, Inc. anticipates a $500,000 funding gap to sustain the cultural impact the festival creates.

To support long-term sustainability, FQFI is launching its first full-scale grassroots fundraising effort during the festival. Admission remains free, and attendees are invited to give as they are able. A suggested donation of $5 for Fest will help maintain the volume and quality of cultural experiences the community relies on. Rising production and security costs, reduced public funding, and growing community need make new funding approaches essential. Contributions will directly fund paid performance opportunities for approximately 1,800 local musicians while keeping the festival accessible to all.

Donations can be made online or in person throughout the festival weekend. Attendees can scan the $5 for Fest QR code or connect with Donation Team members at major sites. Additional ways to give include tipping at official beverage booths and opting into a round-up contribution at points of sale. Every dollar supports local musicians, strengthens cultural traditions, and helps ensure inclusive programming remains a shared community experience for generations to come.

Sponsors and Fans Keep the Festival a FREE Community Event 

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is proud of its 42-year history of providing high-quality community events that welcome locals and guests. To keep the festival free and open to the public, the organization relies heavily on the contributions of sponsors and partners, as well as beverage and merchandise sales. We also recognize and appreciate all of our festival fans who contribute to our success by purchasing merchandise and upgraded festival experiences, becoming a musical performance sponsor, and donating directly to our organization throughout the year.

French Quarter Fest Sponsors Include:

Abita Brewing Company, Airbnb, The Berger Company, Brown-Forman, Caesars New Orleans, Café Beignet, Capital Vacations, Caymus Vineyards, Chevron, Collins C. Diboll Private Foundation, The Derbes Foundation, Diplomatico Rum, el Jimador Tequila, Emmolo, Fords Gin, French Market Corporation, Friend Of Fest, Funny Bird, Hancock Whitney, The Helis Foundation, Historic New Orleans Collection, House Of Blues, Hornbeck Offshore, I.T.S Fire Alarm Security, Jack Daniel’s, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, KREWE, LCMC Health, Louisiana Fish Fry, Luzianne Iced Tea, McLoughlin Family Foundation, Mike’s Amazing, Music Performance Trust Fund & American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz Museum, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Service, New Orleans Steamboat Company, New Orleans Tourism And Cultural Foundation (NOTCF), NOLA.com, Omni Royal Orleans, Pan-American Life Insurance Group, Pepsi, The Plant Gallery, The Reeves Family, RosaMary Foundation, Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Sal Borelli, Sea Sun Wines, Tropical Isle, Upbeat Vodka & Upbeat Vodka Cocktails, Willow Pharmacy, Woody and Kathy Jay, and WWL-Louisiana

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About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron is produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which also produces Satchmo SummerFest presented by New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund in August and Holidays New Orleans Style Concert Series in December.

FQFI’s mission is to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit www.fqfi.org.

Learn about the full FQFI team.

Supporting Our People

Our festivals offer reliable opportunities and compensation plus a world-class stage for Louisiana’s artists.

Every musician hired directly by FQFI earned at least $210 per performance, with the average topping $300. Standard minimum rates ensure a more equitable pay structure across genres and stages—so all performers, big or small, are valued for their craft.

Each performance preserves and evolves our cultural identity, honoring the traditions that make New Orleans unique while creating space for the next generation of talent.

Accessible Arts for All

Our events are completely free because arts and culture should be accessible to everyone. Inclusive, community-centered programming doesn’t just entertain—it builds connection, strengthens neighborhoods, and enriches quality of life.  In New Orleans, where median income is $22,000 below the national average, accessible cultural programming is more than a convenience—it is essential.

FQFI events bring together locals and visitors from around the world. This year about 42% of French Quarter Festival attendees and 53% of Satchmo SummerFest attendees were from the New Orleans metro area. Visitors discover the magic of Louisiana and locals celebrate with neighbors and loved ones. Meaningful connections are forged through the unifying power of live music and cultural practice.

*Based on festival entries recorded at multiple sites and over all event days of FQF and SSF 2025. Does not represent unique individuals.

Fueling the Local Economy

Economic impact refers to the total spending – on hotels, dining, transportation and more – of visitors who traveled here specifically for FQFI events—new dollars flowing into our local economy. 

Because FQFI engages local musicians, vendors, and suppliers, our investment to create this programming and generate this economic impact stays local too. 

And when everyone can participate in the celebration because of our commitment to open-access, this is truly a win-win-win situation!

FQFI events support thousands of local jobs—not only in music, food, and production, but across industries throughout the region.

Our impact extends to public benefit—city and state revenues grow through the economic activity our events inspire.

Building a Greener Future

Through our Geauxing Green program, we diverted nearly 45% of total festival waste away from landfills in 2025. Responsible product sourcing, on-site waste sorting, and public education keep New Orleans’ streets and waterways cleaner. We also eliminated over 300 gallons of fossil fuel usage through sustainable operations, including electric golf carts and a solar-powered stage.

Why It Matters: Preventing Marine Debris
Marine debris is a serious threat to Louisiana’s environment. NOAA reports that roughly 80% of marine debris originates on land via litter and mismanaged waste. By reducing landfill contributions and promoting responsible behavior, Geauxing Green helps stop debris before it reaches our rivers and the Gulf—protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal communities.

We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished together—and we aren’t done yet. More opportunities to celebrate New Orleans’ music and culture are just around the corner with the 2025 Holidays New Orleans Style concert series.

Further data on this year’s impact and achievements will be available in our 2025 Annual Report, which will be released in January of next year.  Sign up for our e-newsletter for more information. 

Data represents outcomes of French Quarter Festival and Satchmo SummerFest 2025. Final impact and achievements to be reported in the organization’s upcoming annual report. 

Economic impact and demographic data as reported by the UNO Hospitality Research Center based on attendee surveys conducted on-site.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) is now accepting applications for six experiential learning internship positions to support the 2026 French Quarter Festival.

The internships will run from October or November 2025 through April 2026, with flexible weekday schedules requiring a minimum of four in-person hours per week at FQFI’s French Quarter office. Interns will gain hands-on experience in festival planning and execution, while working alongside a professional team dedicated to producing one of New Orleans’ signature cultural events.

All interns must be available to work the full duration of the 2026 French Quarter Festival, April 16–19. Event days will require long hours, outdoor work, and a willingness to take on a variety of physical tasks.

These opportunities are designed for students or early-career professionals looking to build skills in event production, arts administration, and nonprofit management while contributing to the success of one of the city’s most beloved festivals.