Our Events

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (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 French Quarter Festival, Satchmo SummerFest and other 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.

French Quarter Festival

French Quarter Festival was created to bring residents back to the French Quarter following the World’s Fair and significant sidewalk repairs. Over the years, it has become a beloved tradition, with more than 1,500 community volunteers contributing to its success. Organized by French Quarter Festivals, Inc., a private non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the event is funded through sponsorships, beverage and merchandise sales, vendor fees, and its annual gala.

The festival showcases over 20 stages spread across the French Quarter, celebrating local music in all its diversity. Attendees can enjoy performances ranging from traditional and contemporary jazz to R&B, New Orleans funk, brass bands, gospel, Zydeco, classical, and more. Complementing the music is a delectable culinary experience. New Orleans’ finest restaurants serve food and beverages at iconic locations like Jackson Square, the Jazz Museum at the Mint, and Woldenberg Riverfront Park. Locals have consistently voted French Quarter Festival a favorite, earning accolades as the city’s top festival, food festival, and public event.

Satchmo SummerFest

Satchmo SummerFest is a two-day celebration honoring the legendary Louis Armstrong, featuring two stages of music, a culinary lineup showcasing Louisiana restaurants, and an engaging indoor lecture series exploring Armstrong’s life, history, and enduring impact.

The festival coincides annually with Louis Armstrong’s true birthdate, August 4, discovered in the mid-1980s. Raised in New Orleans’ “Jane Alley,” Armstrong overcame humble beginnings to become a founding father of jazz and a cultural icon known worldwide as “Satchmo.” His influence on music and culture remains universal and timeless.

Holidays New Orleans Style

& New Orleans Eve

Experience the magic of the holidays and the excitement of New Year’s Eve with Holidays New Orleans Style and New Orleans Eve! Throughout December, enjoy free concerts at the historic St. Louis Cathedral, featuring a variety of musical styles that embody the spirit of New Orleans. Then, ring in the New Year with a vibrant open-air celebration near Jackson Square, complete with live music and the dazzling Crescent City Countdown fireworks over the Mississippi River. These events offer unforgettable moments of music, community, and celebration in the heart of the French Quarter.

THANK YOU to our DONORS

It takes a village (or, let’s say, a big band!) to keep the culture thriving. Each and every donor is a star. You can see their names in lights HERE.

Want to be in that number? Donate today and we’ll recognize you on our website next year! More of a behind-the-scenes type? Not to worry – you can opt-out of public recognition when making your donation.

Questions? Feel free to reach out to our Development Director by emailing karin@fqfi.org or calling 504-227-3171.