French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron Announces Annual Lineup:
A Free Cultural Showcase of New Orleans
April 10-13, 2025
New Orleans (Jan 29, 2025) — French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) is thrilled to announce highlights for the 2025 French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron. As the largest free celebration of Louisiana’s music, food, and culture, FQFI invites the community to gather in the French Quarter from April 10-13, 2025, to celebrate through music, food, and unforgettable experiences.
“Each year, French Quarter Festival brings the vibrant culture of New Orleans to life,” said Emily Madero, President & CEO of FQFI. “We’re excited to welcome locals and visitors to join us for unforgettable music, food, and community moments in one of the world’s most unique neighborhoods.”
Chevron continues its steadfast support of French Quarter Festival, helping bring this cherished celebration of Crescent City’s culture to life. “Chevron is proud to once again serve as presenting sponsor of French Quarter Festival,” said Chevron Gulf of Mexico Public Affairs Manager Leah Brown. “For more than a decade, we’ve supported the event’s mission to showcase the culture and heritage of our unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. We thank the French Quarter Festival team for our long-standing partnership and invite everyone to join us this year!”
2025 Musical Lineup Sneak Preview
300+ acts, including returning favorite Anders Osborne and festival debuts Roi Anthony and Jelly Joseph
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.
Savor the Flavors: Over 65 Culinary Experiences
From Chubbie’s Fried Chicken to the Tastes of Haitian Influence with Fritai NOLA
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. The full festival schedule will be announced in March.
Merchandise and Commemorative Poster Unveiling
This year’s commemorative poster, created by celebrated local artist Ceaux, beautifully captures the vibrant energy of French Quarter Fest. “Secondline culture and the idea of a Grand Marshal kicking off festival season inspired my design,” Ceaux explained. “I wanted to reflect the vastness of the festival and the unique vibes of each location through a colorful, fluid style that embodies the spirit of French Quarter Fest—eclectic, vibrant, and full of life.”
A limited edition of 600 signed and numbered artist-proof silkscreen prints measuring 18″ x 24″ will be available for $100 each. Additionally, the design will be featured on a commemorative shirt available in the festival shop. Festival fans near and far can own a piece of this iconic celebration. Shop posters and shirts online today. [Images]
VIP Passes Available Now
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. In addition to the Fest Family VIP Experience, attendees can take advantage of the ultimate festival luxury with a Front-of-Stage Access Pass, granting prime viewing spots to savor every note and beat of the music.
Fest Family VIP Members 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 have the option to 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 $449, or single-day passes for $149. A limited number of memberships 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.
Special Events, Anniversary Celebrations, and Festival Fun for All Ages
The festival starts with the traditional Opening Day Parade on Thursday, April 10, at 10 AM. Family-friendly activities include the all-star Chevron STEM Zone, offering hands-on experiences for curious minds, and Ernie’s Schoolhouse Stage, which highlights young, aspiring musicians. Stay tuned for more event announcements.
This year marks two significant anniversaries: the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s visit to New Orleans and the 50th anniversary of the Steamboat NATCHEZ.
On Saturday, April 12, 2025, the Louisiana Museum Foundation will host a special event in partnership with The Louisiana State Museum | Cabildo to kick off French Quarter Fest in Jackson Square and to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s visit to New Orleans. Join Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser as he welcomes and introduces a historical re-enactment of Lafayette’s Address from the Jackson Square stage. Gates will open early for this special presentation.
To celebrate 50 years of the Steamboat NATCHEZ, the New Orleans Steamboat Company will offer special anniversary events to festival attendees, including a 50th-anniversary christening ceremony and a special FQF After Dark Riverboat Cruise Concert. Details on both will be released in March.
A full list of confirmed special events can be found at frenchquarterfest.org/special-events. The full festival schedule will be announced in March.
Enhanced Festival Experience
Expanded Access, Sustainability, and Cashless Operations
FQFI is committed to enhancing the festival experience for all attendees. Accessibility improvements this year include a pilot program for sign language interpreters at select stage performances. For inquiries and suggestions regarding accessibility services, including consideration requests for live ASL interpretations, please contact access@fqfi.org.
FQFI’s Geauxing Green initiative minimizes waste and improves the festival’s environmental sustainability. To maintain the use of 100% recyclable or compostable service items for the public, the festival prohibits outside food and beverages. Recycling and composting stations are conveniently placed across all festival sites to support this commitment. Funded by the Gulf of Mexico Alliance, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office for Coastal Management, and the RosaMary Foundation, Geauxing Green aims to achieve an 80% waste diversion rate this year, thanks to the efforts of over 400 dedicated volunteers. Volunteer registration opens on February 20 for roles in recycling, composting, and logistical support.
The 2025 festival will be a cashless event for the first time, with food, beverage, and merchandise booths accepting major credit cards and digital payments only. On-site cash exchange opportunities will be available.
Stay tuned for the full schedule of music, food, and special events, which will be released in early March. Visit frenchquarterfest.org or follow us on Instagram (@fqfest) for updates.
Sponsors and Super 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: Chevron, Abita Brewing Company, Acadian Ambulance Service, Aquaculture Stewardship Council/Laguna Blanca Salmon, Beignet Fest Foundation, The Berger Company, BK House, Brown-Forman, Caesars New Orleans, Café Beignet, Capital Vacations, Caymus Vineyards, The Derbes Foundation, Diplomatico Rum, el Jimador Tequila, Emmolo, Fords Gin, French Market Corporation, Friend Of Fest, Funny Bird, Good Measure at The Barnett, Hancock Whitney, Hilton Riverside New Orleans, The Helis Foundation, House Of Blues, I.T.S Fire Alarm Security, Jack Daniel’s, Jack Daniels Presents Black & Loud, KREWE, LCMC Health, Louisiana Fish Fry, Louisiana Lottery Corporation, Louisiana Museum Foundation, Louisiana State Museum Cabildo, Louisiana Travel, Loyola University, McLoughlin Family Foundation, Merri & John Lynch, Mike’s Amazing, Mrs. Wheat’s New Orleans Meat Pies, Music Performance Trust Fund & American Federation of Musicians Local 174-496, National Endowment For The Arts/ Art Works/ Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz Museum At The Old U.S. Mint, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park Service, New Orleans School of Cooking, New Orleans Steamboat Company, New Orleans Tourism And Cultural Fund, New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund, Omni Royal Orleans, Pan-American Life Insurance Group, Pepsi, The Plant Gallery, Republic National Distributing Company, Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Riverwalk Outlets, Sal Borelli, Sea Sun Wines, T-Mobile,, Tropical Isle, The Westin New Orleans, The Windsor Court, White Claw Vodka, 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.