Ultimate Guide to French Quarter Fest presented by Chevron
French Quarter Fest Returns on April 10-13, 2025
What is French Quarter Fest?
French Quarter Festival (FQF) presented by Chevron is a one-weekend annual celebration of New Orleans’ and Lousiana’s local music and cuisine in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods – the Vieux Carre, or the French Quarter. After 40 years, French Quarter Fest has become a favorite of both locals and visitors alike. French Quarter Fest returns April 10-13, 2025.
This year's festival promises an incredible lineup of performances across 22 stages, including the spectacular Chevron Evening Concert Series, featuring Chapel Hart Band, The Original Pinettes Brass Band with Mia X, Little Freddie King, and Rockin' Dopsie Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters.
Some of this year’s most notable debuts include Roi Anthony and Jelly Joseph on the Jack Daniel’s Stage, as well as Ryan Batiste and Raw Revolution on the Abita Beer Stage. Making their festival premiere, La Tran-K Band will bring the vibrant rhythms of salsa, merengue, cumbia, and bachata, while the Woodenhead 50th Anniversary Band will celebrate their milestone with a debut set on the Tropical Hand Grenade Stage. Featured artists include the captivating Charmaine Neville, whose rich voice and warm personality have won hearts worldwide. Returning to the festival for the first time since 2010, Anders Osborne joins the festival for the first time since 2010, and BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, marks their first appearance since 2014. Attendees can also look forward to performances by beloved favorites Irma Thomas, George Porter Jr., Soul Rebels, John Boutté, Kermit Ruffins, and many more. The DJ Stage remains a festival highlight, featuring the legendary DJ Raj Smoove, dubbed "the greatest DJ in the world" by Lil Wayne.
The Loyola University Esplanade in the Shade Stage, supported by Loyola University New Orleans, will be a major focal point, showcasing emerging talents, established performers, and the university’s students and alumni. Also located at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, the Louisiana Fish Fry Stage will feature the lively sounds of local brass bands like the Red Wolf Brass Band and Sporty's Brass Band. A list of all currently confirmed musical performances can be found at frenchquarterfest.org/music. The full festival schedule will be announced in March.
You can learn more about most of the musicians performing at French Quarter Festival this year via our Artist database, powered by our partners at WWOZ-FM. You'll find bios, photos, playlists, and more.
For the full lineup and more details on this year's festival, download the French Quarter Festival app (iOS) (Android) or visit their site at FrenchQuarterFest.org.
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(1) Muffalettas - French Quarter Fest, (2) Soft-Shell Crab and Yakiniku Po-Boys from Ajun Cajun at French Quarter Fest, (3) Muriel's Crawfish Crepe at French Quarter Fest, (4) Oysters Morrow at French Quarter Fest
2025 French Quarter Fest Food Lineup
Food enthusiasts can indulge in offerings from over 65 top restaurants confirmed so far, including festival favorites and exciting new additions. Chef Kevin Belton will emcee the newly named Mike's Amazing Culinary Stage, presenting live cooking demos and stories about New Orleans' cherished culinary traditions. The Mike’s Amazing team will be on-site to share recipes that deliver maximum flavor and offerings to pair with favorite festival dishes. New participants like Chubbie’s Fried Chicken join beloved longstanding vendors such as Vaucresson Sausage and Ms. Linda The Yakamein Lady. Gems like Friends of Codey's, Addis, and Smoke & Honey return with culinary delights. Abita Beer returns as a major festival sponsor, bringing a variety of beloved local flavors to this year’s celebration.
Spirits and mixed cocktail options will be available at beverage booths across the festival grounds, featuring Jack Daniel’s, Fords Gin, Diplomático Rum, el Jimador Tequila, and Korbel California Champagne. Exciting new additions to the beverage menu include selections from Caymus Vineyards, Emmolo, Sea Sun Wines, and White Claw Vodka.
The festival offers a wide range of non-alcoholic beverages for families and fans of all ages. Pepsi products, including Gatorade and Aquafina Water, will be available throughout the grounds to keep everyone refreshed and hydrated all weekend long. A full list of confirmed culinary vendors can be found at frenchquarterfest.org/food.
When should I book my flight/hotel for French Quarter Fest?
Spring is a popular vacation time in New Orleans, and French Quarter Fest often falls alongside other events, so the earlier you can book your room, the better. But, don’t worry if you’re a bit behind on hotel reservations, because the festival has adopted the Omni Royal Orleans as its official hotel, and there are lots of great hotels around the city, including plenty inside or within walking distance of the French Quarter.
As a general rule, you’ll find better fares if you fly mid-week – all the better since the festival begins on a Thursday. Even if you arrive before or leave after the festival, there’s plenty to do in the city to pass the time (more on that below!).
When is the best time to buy tickets?
No need to worry about missing any sales window or saving up – French Quarter Fest has free general admission! If you’re looking for a VIP experience, the Fest Family Experience gives you access to three exclusive lounges as well as other special perks.
Jackson Square Art at French Quarter Festival
What’s the best way to get around during French Quarter Fest?
There’s lots of parking around the French Quarter and surrounding areas that will put you within walking distance of the festival. Depending on where you’re staying, you can also take in the sights while you go by taking a streetcar or renting a Blue Bike.
What should I wear to French Quarter Fest?
The springtime weather in New Orleans is some of the best of the year. Temperatures average between the low 50s to the upper 70s, so we recommend something light and comfortable to walk in as you traverse the Quarter. Layering is always key, so be sure to pack a sweater or light jacket – preferably a rain jacket so the occasional shower doesn’t catch you off-guard.
What should I bring?
Collapsible chairs, blankets, and ground tarps are a great way to take a break and enjoy the music – and your food. Sunscreen and bug spray are also must-haves. Outside food and beverages aren’t allowed, so be sure to bring cash to get your fill of the great food and drinks available (and to help fill the musician’s tip jars).
French Quarter Festival Stage
How many stages are there, and what can I expect at each stage?
There are 22 stages spread throughout the French Quarter, each with a variety of local musicians. The stages are located at:
There’s always lots to do around New Orleans and the French Quarter is especially full of unique attractions to pass the time before and after the festival. Be sure to check our site calendar to get the latest on all the events taking place both inside and outside of the Quarter over the weekend!
