Our Mission

FQFI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that uplifts and sustains New Orleans’ cultural economy and those who create it. Our 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. FQFI annually produces French Quarter Festival, Satchmo SummerFest, and other cultural programming.

Our History

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) embarked on its journey in 1983 with a vision to encourage people to return to the French Quarter to support local businesses. Following extensive street and sidewalk construction in preparation for the World’s Fair, Mayor Ernest “Dutch” Morial unveiled plans for the inaugural French Quarter Festival in April 1984. After the success of the six-stage event held on Royal St. and Bourbon St., the non-profit organization recognized an opportunity once again to stimulate the local economy during the holiday season. Thus, “A Creole Christmas” (now Holidays New Orleans Style) was born in 1985. With a growing reputation and strong sense of community, FQFI expanded its portfolio by introducing a third event. In August 2001, Satchmo SummerFest came to life celebrating Louis Armstrong’s 100th birthday.

Our Purpose and Values

To uplift and sustain our local cultural economy and those who create it.

Cultural Integrity

We value our community’s unique and creative traditions and strive to celebrate a collection of musical, culinary, and artistic talent that both honors the rich cultural history of our region and welcomes ongoing innovation.

Authenticity

We hold steadfast in our position as an independent, home-grown organization to make mission-driven decisions.

Stewardship

We work to serve as good stewards of New Orleans’s musical, culinary, and artistic traditions, as well as our resources and our environment.

Diversity

We recognize and respect the rich diversity of our people, history, cultural traditions, and lived experiences, which together make us stronger.

Inclusivity

We ensure that our events and programming are accessible to everyone because arts and culture bring us together and are paramount to our quality of life and cultural identity.  

Community

We create high-quality programming that belongs to the local community we serve.

Our Impact

Investing in the local community is integral to our mission. FQFI remains dedicated to supporting our local musicians, culinary vendors, culture bearers, and gig workers who form the essence of each FQFI event.