French Quarter Festival 2026 – Dates, Lineup, Schedule & Tickets | New Orleans

French Quarter Festival 2026: The Ultimate Celebration of New Orleans Music & Culture

Mark your calendars! The French Quarter Festival 2026 returns to the heart of New Orleans for four unforgettable days of live music, local cuisine, and Southern hospitality. Known as the largest free music festival in the South, this annual event transforms the historic French Quarter into a vibrant open-air stage.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local, this guide covers everything you need to know—from official dates and the 2026 lineup to schedules, tickets (spoiler: it’s free!), maps, and insider tips.

🗓️ French Quarter Festival 2026 Dates & Location

• Dates: April 9–12, 2026 (Thursday–Sunday)
• Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Admission: FREE – No tickets required!
• Hours: Generally 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily (exact times vary by stage)

Note: The 2026 festival continues the tradition of taking place the weekend after Easter—making it a perfect spring getaway.

🎵 French Quarter Festival 2026 Lineup (Expected)

While the official 2026 lineup won’t be announced until late 2025 or early 2026, past festivals feature over 1,700 musicians across 20+ stages, showcasing:

• Traditional and contemporary jazz
• Zydeco, blues, and brass bands
• Funk, R&B, and gospel
• Local culinary artists (via the “Music & Food” combo)

Based on the 2025 participation lineup, expect a mix of iconic New Orleans acts like:

• The Rebirth Brass Band
• Irma Thomas
• Jon Batiste (if available)
• Trombone Shorty Foundation artists
• Emerging local talent from NOCCA and other music schools

Stay tuned! The full French Quarter Festival 2026 lineup will be published on the official website (fqfi.org) in January 2026.

🗺️ Festival Map & Stages

The festival sprawls across the French Quarter with stages at iconic locations like:

• Jackson Square
• Woldenberg Park (Riverfront)
• Bourbon Street (quiet section)
• Royal Street
• St. Philip Street
• French Market

A detailed map (similar to the French Quarter Festival 2025 map) will be available online and at info booths during the event. Download the official app for real-time navigation and set times.

⏰ French Quarter Festival 2026 Schedule & Daily Times

Tentative Daily Breakdown:

• Thursday, April 9, 2026: Opening day – Local favorites & lunchtime jazz
• Friday, April 10, 2026: Expanded stages, evening headliners
• Saturday, April 11, 2026: Peak attendance – Full lineup across all zones
• Sunday, April 12, 2026: Gospel brunch, family-friendly acts, grand finale

Typical Schedule Time:
11:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
Some riverfront stages may start as early as 10:30 AM.

The French Quarter Festival 2026 schedule will include set times by artist and stage, released 2–3 weeks before the event.

🎟️ Do You Need Tickets for French Quarter Festival 2026?

No! The French Quarter Festival is 100% free and open to the public. That’s right—no tickets, no wristbands, no entry fee.

However, donations are welcome to support the nonprofit French Quarter Festivals, Inc., which organizes the event and funds year-round cultural programs.

Pro Tip: While entry is free, hotel rooms fill fast—book accommodations 6–12 months in advance if you’re traveling from out of town.

🍤 Food, Drinks & Local Flavor

More than just music, the festival is a culinary showcase of New Orleans:

• Over 60 local restaurants serve signature dishes ($5–$10 samples)
• Local craft beer & cocktails available for purchase
• “Beverage Gardens” offer seating and rest areas

Must-try bites:

• Crawfish bread
• Gumbo
• Beignets
• Po’boys from legendary spots like Johnny’s or Verti Marte

🚶‍♀️ Getting There & Transportation

• Walking: Best option! The French Quarter is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
• Streetcar: Use the Riverfront or Canal Street lines.
• Rideshare: Drop-off zones are designated nearby.
• Parking: Limited—use downtown garages or park outside the Quarter and walk in.

Avoid driving during peak hours (12 PM–6 PM) due to street closures.

French Quarter Festival 2026 – FAQs

Q: Is the French Quarter Festival really free?

A: Yes! No tickets or passes are needed. It’s funded by sponsors, vendors, and donations.

Q: What about the French Quarter Festival 2027?

A: The 2027 edition is expected to occur April 8–11, 2027 (following the same post-Easter pattern). Details will be released in late 2026.

Q: Can I bring a chair or cooler?

A: Small folding chairs are allowed, but no coolers, outside alcohol, or large bags. Security checks are in place.

Q: Is it family-friendly?

A: Absolutely! There’s a dedicated Kids’ Zone with music, crafts, and activities.

Q: What if it rains?

A: The festival is rain or shine. Many stages are covered, but bring rain gear just in case.

Q: Where can I find the 2025 map or lineup for reference?

A: Visit fqfi.org/archive for past festival maps, schedules, and artist lists.

🌟 Why You Should Attend French Quarter Festival 2026

• Authentic New Orleans culture – no corporate overlays
• Support local musicians and chefs
• Zero cost for world-class entertainment
• A more relaxed alternative to Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest crowds

👉 Official Website: www.fqfi.org
👉 Follow on Social Media: @frenchquarterfest (Instagram, Facebook, X)

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