Special Events
Thursday
Fans are invited to join festival organizers, sponsors, and partners to kick off this year’s French Quarter Fest on Thursday, at the French Quarter Festival Kickoff Parade. The parade departs from the 200 block of Bourbon Street down to St. Ann Street, where it turns and makes its way to Jackson Square for the annual Opening Day Ceremony.
Jack Daniel’s presents Black & Loud Fest with Omari Neville and the Fuel, King Youngblood, and more
Thursday, Apr 10, 2025
House of Blues Parish Room, 225 Decatur St.
9:00 PM – until
Friday
Big Sam’s Funky Nation at Good Measure
Friday, Apr 11, 2025
The Barnett, 600 Carondelet St.
8:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Saturday
Chevron STEM Boat: A Voyage of Discovery
Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Embark on an exciting journey with the Chevron STEM Boat: A Voyage of Discovery! Join us dockside as we delve into the wonders of maritime science, marine biology, and the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana’s waterways and boats. Don’t miss this family-friendly adventure on the river!
200th ANNIVERSARY OF MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE’S VISIT
Saturday, April 12, 2025
Jackson Square
10:15 AM – 10:45 AM
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.
Jack Daniel’s presents Black & Loud Fest with Cyril Neville, Shamarr Allen, Irvin Mayfield, King Youngblood, and more
Saturday, Apr 12, 2025
House of Blues Parish Room, 225 Decatur St.
9:00 PM – until
Sunday
Chevron STEM Boat: A Voyage of Discovery
Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Embark on an exciting journey with the Chevron STEM Boat: A Voyage of Discovery! Join us dockside as we delve into the wonders of maritime science, marine biology, and the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana’s waterways and boats. Don’t miss this family-friendly adventure on the river!
Celebrating 50 Years aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ
Where: 400 Toulouse Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
When: 8:30AM – 10:30AM
Steamboat NATCHEZ 50th Anniversary Jam Session
Sunday, Apr 13, 2025
400 Toulouse Street
9:30PM – until
Happening daily
Dance Lessons & Performances
The French Market Traditional Jazz Stage and the Chevron Stage will feature dancing and classes in the following: Traditional Jazz, 1920s Charleston, Swing Dance, Cajun, Jitterbug, and Zydeco. Professional dancers teach classes which are free and open to the public, presented by The French Market Corporation.
Calliope Concerts on the Natchez
Calliope Concerts can be heard along the Riverfront every morning during French Quarter Fest from 10:30 AM – 10:45 AM.
FQF After Dark Series
The French Quarter Fest After Dark Series expands the fan experience by offering nighttime programming from 9:00 PM to midnight. The curated series will be held at special venues around the city to keep the good times rolling after the last festival stage closes at 8:00 PM.