
A state like no other. A place known for togetherness, celebration and happiness.
In Louisiana, we call it “joie de vivre” – joy of life. It’s a joy you’ll find when you two-step to Cajun music for the first time, try your first bite of crawfish, or cast a line for a bass you’ll be bragging about when you get back home. It’s a joy you’ll find in the welcoming smiles and friendly greetings you’ll receive from Louisiana locals.
Louisiana is rich with experiences that will Feed Your Soul and fill your heart with joy. You’ll find them down our scenic trails and byways, where you’ll find historic treasures, unique music, delicious fresh seafood and the natural beauty of Louisiana. They’re waiting at our state parks, on hiking trails and in lakeside cabins.
So come one, come y’all! Come Feed Your Soul with the rich culture, delicious food, beautiful scenery and worldfamous hospitality you’ll find in #OnlyLouisiana. The good times and sunshine are ready when you are!
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15 Mar 23
Partner News
French Quarter Festival is Just One Month Away! Louisiana TravelFull Music Schedule and Culinary Menu Revealed, FQF After Dark Series, 40th Anniversary Hub ...Read moreFrench Quarter Festival is Just One Month Away! Louisiana Travel - News & announcementsFull Music Schedule and Culinary Menu Revealed,
FQF After Dark Series, 40th Anniversary Hub & more
The non-profit French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), shares final details about French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron, April 13-16, 2023. Billed as the world’s largest showcase of Louisiana music, food, and culture, the 2023 festival will feature over 50 music performance debuts, ten new culinary experiences, nighttime programming, and special 40th-anniversary components. Today, Android and iPhone users can install the newly updated French Quarter Fest app to access the schedule, culinary lineup, maps, and more. For four decades French Quarter Festival has remained committed to providing a high-quality event that is accessible to all. “As a free event, French Quarter Festival is truly for everyone and we cannot wait to celebrate and share this milestone with our community,” said Emily Madero, President and CEO of FQFI. “We are proud to be able to produce an event that truly represents the depth and diversity of New Orleans’ creative spirit with more than 30 varieties of music on 20 stages, and over 60 culinary experiences. Our team is excited to bring fan favorites back like Fireworks on the river, the FQF After Dark Series, and launch special features like the 40th Anniversary Hub, and so many new and upcoming artists and restaurants.” Fans are invited to join festival organizers, sponsors, and partners to celebrate this milestone on Thursday, April 13 at 10 a.m. for the French Quarter Festival Kickoff Parade. The parade departs from the 200 block of Bourbon Street and makes its way to Jackson Square for the annual opening day ceremony at the GE Stage.Music Schedule Revealed
More than 270 Performances including more than 50 debuts
The music lineup is sure to please everyone with more than 270 performances from a variety of genres across 20 stages. The Riverfront Abita Beer Stage brings four days of music including headliners The Soul Rebels ft. Big Freedia, Ani DiFranco, Samantha Fish, and Tank and the Bangas. On Thursday night, Irma Thomas, Soul Queen of New Orleans closes out the stage with her last note followed by a special 40th-anniversary fireworks show on the riverfront, made possible by New Orleans & Company. Returning to JAX Lot, the Chevron Stage is a longtime Cajun/Zydeco destination well-known for its dancing crowds and energetic sounds. This year the Chevron Evening Concert Series features Big Chief Monk Boudreaux and the Golden Eagles, Erica Falls, Louisiana’s LeRoux, Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters, and free dance lessons daily. The GE Stage in Jackson Square kicks off Thursday following the Festival’s Opening Ceremony and continues throughout the weekend with New Orleans’ most respected artists and culture-bearers including Lena Prima, The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, debut artist Charlie Gabriel and a special performance from Solid Harmony – A Tribute to Topsy Chapman, who began her FQF journey the inaugural year. Artists on the Jack Daniel’s Stage in Canal Plaza bring a variety of sounds including performances from Latin band Muévelo, Rock artist and debut Zita, and favorites like R&B group Water Seed and The Dirty Dozen Brass Band. At the Tropical Isle Hand Grenade Stage, the lineup includes debut Rachel Fleetwood & Perfect Love Band, Higher Heights Reggae Band, Bag of Donuts, whose costumes are sure to liven up even the quietest Fest fan, a Sunday morning Gospel performance from debut choir The Zion Harmonizers and more. The New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint is now home to the Credit Human Songwriter Stage inside the museum on the 3rd floor Saturday - Sunday and will include performances and talks from artists such as Mia Borders and Cole Williams. Outside, fans can enjoy more than a dozen brass bands Friday-Sunday on the Louisiana Fish Fry Stage, and the WWL-TV Esplanade in the Shade Stage brings debut Jason Neville FunkySoul Band, Astral Project, Iceman Special, and more to the Festival. Stop by the Pan-American Life Insurance Group Stage Friday-Sunday for a fusion of Latin beats, World Music, and Jazz from debuts like Cyrus Nabipoor Quintet and Javier Olondo & AsheSon. Ernie’s Schoolhouse Stage located at the Homer A. Plessy Community School brings youth from across the city to perform including the John Ehret Jazz Ensemble and Edna Karr. The festival brings more music and dancing to the French Quarter neighborhood with the return of the French Market Traditional Jazz Stage, which also features free dance lessons, and the French Market Dutch Alley Stage, both located in the French Market District. More traditional jazz stages join the Festival’s lineup on Saturday and Sunday on Royal and Bourbon St. including the Café Beignet Stage at Musical Legends Park and Jazz Playhouse at the Royal Sonesta New Orleans, the Omni Royal Orleans Stage, Hancock Whitney Stage, and Zapp’s Potato Chips Stage. FQF also welcomes the Loyola University Stage at 400 Royal Street which kicks off Saturday with a performance by current students in the Loyola University Contemporary Ensemble(s). The complete Music Cchedule is now available on frenchquarterfest.org.
60+ Culinary Experiences
Calories Well Worth It!
The 2023 French Quarter Festival Culinary Lineup, sponsored by Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, returns with New Orleans' most infamous dishes, as well as new takes on the classics and items that can only be found at the Fest. This year FQF welcomes ten culinary debuts including Vietnamese cuisines from 9 Roses with a Pork Belly Banh Mi and Bao Mi with Bulgogi Fries. Acropolis on Freret brings their famous Dolmadas (grape leaves rolled with rice and pine nuts), Heard Dat Kitchen serves up their special Skeesh Shrimp, Baroness with their Sock-It-To-Me Shrimp Dip, and Boulevard American Bistro will be dishing out their Boulevard Crispy Oysters. Debuts also include Monday with a Whole Deep Fried Snapper and Seafood Gumbo, Paco's Taco, Louisiana Fish Fry with Nola Crawfish King, Creole Country Cafe. Other returning favorites include Café Dauphine, Dickie Brennan’s & Co., Tujague’s Restaurant, Mrs. Wheat’s Pies, and Addis Nola. The complete Culinary Lineup is available at frenchquarterfest.org.FQF 40th Anniversary Hub & Special Events
In celebration of four decades of showcasing all the best Louisiana has to offer, producers have curated several elements over the four-day weekend to commemorate the occasion. On Thursday morning, everybody’s invited to meet at the 200 Block of Bourbon Street for the Festival Kick-Off Parade with performing bands such as The Black Magic Drumline and New Birth Brass Band. The event begins at 10 am and proceeds down to St. Ann St. where it then turns to make its way to Jackson Square for the Festival’s Opening Ceremony, at the GE Stage. The ceremony will include remarks from founders and festival dignitaries and ends with a blessing of the weather and kicks off the first performance. Opening day 40th-anniversary celebrations will culminate with a fireworks display over the Mississippi River after Irma Thomas’ performance at the Abita Stage, courtesy of New Orleans & Company. Throughout the weekend fest-goers can step into the Official 40th Anniversary Hub located at the top of Oscar Dunn Park (across from Jackson Square) to follow our story through images and interviews with founding members, artists, sponsors, and more. A special installation, created by JAMNOLA and Where Y’Art Works artists, will sit at the top of the park for photo opportunities with your favorite French Quarter scenes as the backdrop. Another first for the Fest, fans can grab a photo at the #FQFestFaves Photo Booth powered by Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails and Curio Bistro located in Oscar Dunn Park’s amphitheater. The photo booth camper is a first-of-its-kind for New Orleans from The Happy Photobooth. In addition, the Garden of Legends, curated by JAMNOLA artist Brennan Steele, returns to Fest in Woldenberg Park near the Abita Stage. The 2023 Garden of Legends includes the likeness of Irma Thomas, Soul Queen of New Orleans, Tarriona “Tank” Ball (Tank and the Bangas), and this year, the addition of Big Chief Monk Boudreaux (Golden Eagles).FQF After Dark
And the beat goes on!
For the second year, The FQF After Dark Series expands the fan experience by offering nighttime programming. 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 8pm. Thursday, April 13, 2023 FQF After Dark @ Four Seasons Hotel Garden Featuring Ivan Neville Address: 2 Canal St. New Orleans, 70130 Time: 9 pm - 12 am Cover: $45 Friday, April 14, 2023 FQF After Dark at Three Keys at ACE Hotel Featuring John Michael Bradford & the Vibe + special guests Address: 600 Carondelet St. New Orleans Time: 9 pm - 10:30pm Cover: $25 Tickets can be purchased here Saturday, April 15, 2023 FQF After Dark at The Parish at House of Blues Featuring Boyfriend Address: 225 Decatur St., New Orleans, LA 70130 Time: 9pm (Doors open at 9pm, Show Starts at 10pm) Cover: $35 Sunday, April 16, 2023 FQF After Dark at Tipitina's Featuring An Evening with Eric Lindell Address: 501 Napoleon Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 Time: 8:30 pm - 12 am Cover: $28 in advance/ $30 at the door Tickets can be purchased hereChevron Children’s STEM Zone
A Gold Medal Experience For Curious Minds Of Olympic Size
Saturday and Sunday families are invited to Chevron’s "STEM Olympics," to engage with fascinating activities. “We welcome kids from the Crescent City and around the world to the Chevron Children’s STEM Zone at French Quarter Festival. This fun, interactive environment is designed to foster a passion for learning by showing how science, technology, engineering and math are the foundation for their future success,” said Chevron Gulf of Mexico Public Affairs Manager Leah Brown. “This year we will showcase a ‘STEM Olympics’ and provide a gold medal experience with activities created by twelve of our community partners. We’re proud to once again bring The Chevron Children’s STEM Zone to French Quarter Festival and invite everyone to stop by.” Community partners include Audubon Nature Institute, NASA Astro Camp Community Partners Program, Naval Information Warfare Center, Ochsner Health Education Outreach, Project Lead the Way, The Water Institute, NAMI St. Tammany, STEM NOLA, Greater New Orleans STEM Initiative, Central Creativity & LA STEM, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, and Northshore Technical Community College. Chevron Children’s STEM Zone will return to the Natchez Wharf at the foot of Toulouse Street at the River from 11am-5pm both days.Official Festival Merchandise
A Nod to Four Decades of Music, Food & Culture!
The 2023 FQF Merchandise lineup gives a special nod to the 80s era with bright colors, nostalgic elements, a special remake of an original 80’s tee design, and a 40th-anniversary custom lapel pin. All items will be available at Fest and online, after the festival. This year’s Official Festival Poster, designed by TILT Studio artists, and short-sleeve shirt can be purchased online today, as well as at the festival in the merch shop.Fest in Style!
While the Fest is free, fans can support the event and experience French Quarter Festival in style by becoming members of the NOLA.com Fest Family Experience! Fest Family members will enjoy exclusive elevated viewing stands near the riverfront Abita Beer Stage, hospitality lounges at the Chevron Stage and Jack Daniel’s Stage. Members can enjoy chair massages brought to you by Spa 2 Geaux daily from 1pm-3pm in JAX Brewery Lot near the Chevron Stage and free phone charging provided by MobileQubes at each location. Pass benefits also include private bars with 3 complimentary drinks per day (and option to redeem at all festival beverage locations), air-conditioned restrooms, exclusive programming, complimentary Satchmo SummerFest tickets, and more! This year, the program will offer four-day weekend passes for $429 or single-day passes for $129, in advance. As an added perk, four-day weekend pass holders will receive a 30% discount to JAMNOLA. A limited number of memberships are available and help to fund the free, local event. Fans can become a member and support the fest by purchasing your passes today.Sponsors & YOU Help To Keep French Quarter Fest a
FREE Community Event
French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is proud of its 40-year history of providing high-quality community events that welcome locals and guests. In order 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 our festival family who contribute to our success by purchasing merchandise and upgraded festival experiences, becoming a musician sponsor, and donating directly to our organization French Quarter Fest Sponsors Include: Chevron, Abita Brewing Company, Aetna Better Health of Louisiana, Alka Seltzer, AOS Interior Environments, Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program, The Berger Company, Blue Bikes, Broussard’s Restaurant & Courtyard, Brown-Forman, Café Beignet, Caesars New Orleans - Coming 2024, Clarion Herald, Cumulus New Orleans, Super Chevy Dealers, Crescent Crown Distributing, The Derbes Foundation, Diplomatico Rum, Downbeat Magazine, el Jimador Tequila, Finlandia Vodka, Fords Gin, Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, French Market Coffee, French Market Corporation, Friend Of Fest, Funny Bird, GE, Hancock Whitney, House Of Blues, The Helis Foundation, I.T.S Fire Alarm Security, Jack Daniel’s, Land of Dreams Foundation, JAMNOLA, Jones Walker, Keesler Federal Credit Union, Korbel California Champagne, KREWE, Landry’s Seafood House, LeafFilter, Louisiana Cookin’, Louisiana Division Of The Arts, Louisiana Fish Fry, Louisiana Lottery Corporation, Louisiana Travel, Loyola University, McLoughlin Family Foundation, Metropolitan Human Services District, Morris Bart, LLC., Music Performance Trust Fund, National Endowment For The Arts, New Orleans & Company, New Orleans Jazz Museum At The Old U.S. Mint, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, New Orleans Public Belt, New Orleans Steamboat Company, Offbeat Magazine, Omni Royal Orleans, Pan-American Life Insurance Group, Park First, Pepsi, The Plant Gallery, Port Of New Orleans, Renaissance Publishing, Republic National Distributing Company, Royal Sonesta New Orleans, Sal Borelli, Sonoma-Cutrer Wines, Starry, T-Mobile, Telemundo 42 New Orleans, The Happy Photobooth, Three Keys at ACE Hotel, Times-Picayune-Nola.Com-Gambit, Tipitina’s, Touro, Tropical Isle, The Westin New Orleans, vIVe Hydration Therapy, WGSO 990AM, Where Y’at Magazine, Windsor Court Hotel, WWNO 89.9FM, WWOZ 90.7FM, WWL-TV, Zapp’s Potato Chips 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 in August and Holidays New Orleans Style 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. The 2022 French Quarter Festival generated an economic impact of nearly $250M. For more information about French Quarter Festivals, Inc. or any of these events, call (504) 522-5730 or visit http://www.fqfi.org. -
09 Nov 22
NEWS
Louisiana’s Jennifer Berthelot: “Southern Hospitality is difficult to convey. You have to live it.”Tourism is looking up with the 2022 return of Mardi Gras, Jazz Festivals, and popular ...Read moreLouisiana’s Jennifer Berthelot: “Southern Hospitality is difficult to convey. You have to live it.” - News & announcementsTourism is looking up with the 2022 return of Mardi Gras, Jazz Festivals, and popular events. and international flights. There has been an increased demand for authentic experiences, culture, and visiting small towns. "Our people are always welcoming of visitors. That's who we are.", said Jennifer. "Southern Hospitality" is difficult to convey. You have to live it." -
05 Jul 22
Expert Hub
Find Food for your Soul with Louisiana’s Culinary Trails and Travel IdeasLouisiana will be exhibiting in London at the National Geographic Traveller Food Festival on ...Read moreFind Food for your Soul with Louisiana’s Culinary Trails and Travel Ideas - News & announcementsLouisiana will be exhibiting in London at the National Geographic Traveller Food Festival on 16th & 17th July 2022
Louisiana is a culinary hub brought to life thanks to countless styles of cooking that are sure to knock the socks off your taste buds. Not only will the delicious cuisine keep you full and desperate for more, but Louisiana reckons the feel-good food is what has the state ranked as amongst the happiest in a recent scientific study. After all, the way to everyone’s heart is food – especially loaded with sugar and spice like so many Louisianan treats are. Treat Your Taste Buds to the Tasty Trails in Louisiana.In Louisiana, there are eight culinary trails to feed your soul and stock up your recipe book collection, that cover the whole state. As well as being a culinary centre, Louisiana is a cultural melting pot which makes for some of the most delicious recipes around. Creole Crescent centres around the foods that made New Orleans a culinary star and made it magnetic to chefs. Visit Tammany Tastes trail if you are looking for seafood and the freshest produce. The trail Capital Cravings, in state capital Baton Rouge, is just as delicious. Something that will both burn your mouth and blow your mind are the seasoning and seafood on Bayou Bounty. Seafood Sensation brings all the southwest has; and you can tell when you taste the seafood and the boudin. Prairie Home Cooking is not only great for scenic drives but also perfect for home-cooked meals in family style. Red River Riches will take you to the north of the state and all around the globe with its inventive meals. The northernmost trail: Delta Delights will have you heading uphill for an absolute feast of southern delights. Food and drink are not just food and drink in Louisiana: they’re a way of life. Foods have seasons, and not the other way around. When food comes first, it’s not surprising that the only dishes cooked are the best ones and that includes everything from the bright purple, green, and gold King Cake, to the brown rice and browned veggies of a delicious Jambalaya, found at the Jambalaya Festival in star Jambalaya town, Gonzales. Many would agree that the signature treat in New Orleans is the beignet, a fried dough covered in icing sugar. Despite its origin (believed to be in France or Ancient Rome) New Orleans, or more specifically Café Du Monde, is heralded as the beignet capital of the world. To further this, Now Orleans hosts an annual Beignet Festival – icing sugar heaven! A po’boy is a staple in Louisiana culture. The so-called po’boy began as a ‘poor boy’ sandwich, which originated from the Martin Brother’s Market Restaurant and Coffee Stand in New Orleans during the 1929 streetcar strike. They were served to the workers in a show of support, and taste this powerful history at Mother’s Restaurant in New Orleans. Native to the north is the traditional meat pie, from Natchitoches which is a delicious find. Similar to empanadas, they are full of beef, pork, and the classic seasonings of Louisiana food, and for the widest variety visit the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival. Eat as You Experience, Louisiana Offers Food and Festivals for All. In Louisiana, it’s no surprise that cooking schools are open to the public: teaching about the history of the food, as well as offering lessons that show visitors how to make the delicacies. In the city of New Orleans, you can visit the New Orleans School of Cooking, and via both demonstrations and hands-on classes, you can be taught the secrets of jambalaya, shrimp creole, gumbo, pralines, and even bread pudding. However, if your trip is based in the capital of the foodie-state, visit the accredited Louisiana Culinary Institute in Baton Rouge where you can learn to cook some of the best Louisianan dishes. If learning isn’t your thing, but the experience of Louisianan food is still right for you then take a peek at the innumerable food festivals hosted in the spicy southern state: New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival whilst being a music festival it also brings the scent of good food with it. The festival is well-known for bringing some of Louisiana's best dishes with it: po’boys, boudin balls, and crawfish bread. Gumbo Festivals are plenty in this state, because if there’s anything Louisiana is known for: it’s the million and three gumbo’s you can buy all over the state. Crawfish Festivals are almost as important as crawfish boils in the spring months, as temperatures and spirits rise. And if you can’t find local Crawfish Boil to gorge yourself on, the next best options are festivals. Mardi Gras in Eunice in the small Cajun prairie town experience culinary traditions from boucherie to cochon de lait, including, on Mardi Gras Day, a communal gumbo and all the traditions surrounding it. Mardi Gras in Eunice isn’t the only Mardi Gras that’s worth a visit, the exuberant, exciting, and eclectic celebrations in party-hub New Orleans are massively attractive as well. From traditions such as the float parades, bead throwing, Bourbon Street shenanigans to the more subdued traditions held together in the delightful, flavourful, and colourful sweet bread of King Cake. The oval shape of the cake, represents the unity of all faiths. The bright colours the sugar adds to the top are also symbolic, the green representing faith, the purple representing justice, and the gold representing power. In many King Cakes you will find a baby Jesus figurine, and whoever finds it shall be gifted luck and prosperity as a result, whilst also being the monarch for the evening. If you’re looking for spice, look no further than Avery Island, home of the iconic Louisianan hot sauce: Tabasco. The infamous sauce was first created in1868, over 150 years ago. Created by Edmund McIlhenny, it is now produced by the McIlhenny Company of Avery Island. It has transformed from their original Red Sauce of vinegar, Tabasco peppers, and salt into a collection of Siracha, Sweet & Spicy, Habanero, Chipotle, Jalapeño, Cayenne Garlic, Scorpion, and Buffalo style hot sauces. On this Island, you can see how the hot sauce is made via an in-depth factory tour, before enjoying the island’s Jungle Garden, leaving with a few Tabasco themed gifts from the Tabasco Country Store, together with the sauces if you can brave the 1,000–35,000 Scoville units. The heart of Cajun Louisiana lies in the gentle hands of Lafayette, located in the southwest of this culinary masterpiece of a state. Due south of New Orleans, through the plantation houses and all the rich history there, it’s a gorgeous location brought to life with the spice of Cajun culture, with classic dance halls and music to enjoy alongside the food. When Lafayette was named the “South’s Tastiest Town” in 2012 by Southern Living, it introduced the area to the rest of the world, and to experience the tasty goodness, all you need to do is climb aboard a tour bus and enjoy the Cajun Food Tours. alternatively, experience the heart of Cajun via Chef-guided Culinary Tours by chef Patrick Mould, leading you on a multi-day experience that includes local gems, such as restaurants, and cooking classes. At Houmas House Plantation Home in Darrow, Louisiana you can enjoy the Sugar Baron’s Feast, invite your friends and enjoy a special evening together. The Sugar Baron’s Feast includes a private tour of the mansion and a seven-course meal. Can’t do the feast? Dine at Latil’s Landing Restaurant on-site, your meal prepared by critically acclaimed Executive Chef Jeremy Langlois, who brings more than 20 years of experience to the table. If Louisianan food is to your taste, but you’re still stuck in the UK, chefs Jeremy Langlois and Brian Landry are bringing the vibrancy and the best of Louisiana with them as they take the National Geographic Traveller Food Festival by storm, with demonstrations in the masterclass theatres each day. As the Executive Chef at Houmas Latil’s Landing Restaurant, Jeremy masterfully and excellently creates and cultivates his cooking style “Nouvelle Louisiane”. At 22, he was made the youngest Executive Chef at any DiRONA (Distinguished Restaurants, of North America). Brian is the Chef/Owner of QED Hospitality, a restaurant operations management group that runs Jack Rose restaurant, the Bayou Bar, Hot Tin rooftop bar and the Silver Whistle Café within the Pontchartrain Hotel in New Orleans. At the Louisiana booth, you can enjoy tasty tidbits of Louisiana’s culinary culture and start planning your culinary adventure. At the festival you can also get a taste of Bayou® Rum, which is distilled from locally grown sugarcane in southern Louisiana. Their molasses comes from the oldest family-owned and operated sugar mill in the United States. Utilising traditional methods with state-of-the-art technology from fermentation through distillation, maturation and bottling, Bayou Rum has earned its title of #1 Craft Rum in America*.
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22 Jun 22
Partner News
French Quarter Festivals, Inc. Announces Satchmo SummerFest Presented by Chevron Lineup – Louisiana TravelTwo Full Days of Festing French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), producer of Satchmo ...Read moreFrench Quarter Festivals, Inc. Announces Satchmo SummerFest Presented by Chevron Lineup – Louisiana Travel - News & announcementsTwo Full Days of Festing
French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI), producer of Satchmo SummerFest presented by Chevron, is proud to announce the 2022 live music, speaker series and culinary lineup for the festival’s annual return on August 6 & 7 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint. The premier American festival dedicated to the life, legacy, and music of New Orleans' native son, Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong, brings two days of live entertainment, food, and fun that is certain to keep fans on their feet and dancing to the beat. Fest attendees can once again pre-purchase tickets online beginning Wednesday, June 22, 2022. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $7 or onsite for $10 per day (children 12 and under are free). Admission also provides access to the Jazz Museum’s collection and exhibitions, plus the Satchmo Legacy Stage in Memory of Joni Berry featuring discussions and presentations by world-renowned Armstrong scholars. Fans are encouraged to register here in advance to secure their spot and avoid lines. 20 Jazz, Brass, Swing, Funk, and Fusion Acts to Perform, Along with Satchmo Scholars The 2022 festival lineup includes 20 musical acts ranging from traditional jazz to swing, brass and marching bands, funk, R&B, jazz fusion, and more performing on two tented stages. The lineup includes:- Big 6 Brass Band
- Doreen's Jazz
- Players Ella & Louie Tribute Band featuring Jewel Brown
- Germaine Bazzle
- John Boutté
- Lawrence Cotton Legendary Experience
- Nigel Hall
- Roots of Music
- The Nayo Jones Experience
Official 2022 Satchmo SummerFest Poster
This year’s poster art is a collaborative effort of digital artists from TILT studio . “In celebration of Satchmo Summerfest, we wanted this year’s poster to be a blend of New Orleans icons: bright colors, unique architectural elements, beautiful flowers, and of course, the instrument most closely associated with the city’s most revered musician, Louis Armstrong," said Scott Hodgin, Owner & Creative Director of TILT The official Festival poster can be pre-purchased now with shipping beginning mid-July. Posters will also be available at the official merchandise booth during Fest.There’s Even More to Enjoy at Our Fest
The 22nd annual event returns with its favorite traditions and added fun for the whole family:- Satchmo Soundoff: Music fans of all ages can attend a special performance by some of the city's youngest and most talented musicians. The Roots of Music presented by Fidelity Bank will kick off this year’s festival Saturday at 11:30am on Esplanade Ave., right outside of the Museum gates.
- Satchmo SummerFest Jazz Mass : The Jazz Mass at Augustine Church will begin at 10am where attendees can also enjoy a spirited performance by Treme Brass Band. Due to ongoing renovations at St. Augustine Church, mass will be held in the Parish Hall. Please note that space and seating is limited. The mass will be livestreamed on Facebook.com/saintaugchurch.
- Satchmo SummerFest Second-Line Parade: The Treme Brass Band will lead attendees out of Sunday mass at St. Augustine Church at 11:15am in the Treme neighborhood and through the French Quarter for a Second-Line parade to the New Orleans Jazz Museum
A New Tradition, With Major Impact
Festival organizers continue their partnership with the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program (BTNEP) for the second year at Satchmo SummerFest after a successful first year at French Quarter Fest with the Geauxing Green Initiative. The program will focus on marine debris prevention by allowing only reusable, recyclable, and compostable food and drink products at the festival. In addition, attendees will be greeted by Green Team staff, who will be on hand throughout the festival grounds to guide the public in the use of recycling and composting stations. Accompanying marketing materials focused on marine debris prevention will be available on site. The partnership supports FQFI’s goal of being a leader in sustainable festival production in the Gulf South.Thank you Sponsors and Community Partners:
French Quarter Festivals, Inc. is proud of its 39-year history of providing high-quality community events that are accessible to all. The organization relies heavily on the contributions of sponsors and partners as well as beverage and merchandise sales to support the festival. Festival organizers welcome the return of Chevron as Presenting Sponsor of Satchmo SummerFest. “Satchmo SummerFest is a celebration of the music, life and legacy of Louis Armstrong and is part of Chevron’s commitment to the local community,” said Leah Brown, Public Affairs Manager for Chevron's Gulf of Mexico Business Unit. “His determination, talent, charisma, and charity broke down barriers in the Crescent City, across the country, and around the world. This event honors New Orleans’ favorite son, while also stimulating economic growth and fueling the social vitality of southeast Louisiana. Chevron is proud to be a part of it.”Happy Birthday, Satchmo!
Satchmo SummerFest is scheduled annually to coincide with Louis Armstrong’s birthday on August 4th; the first festival took place on what would have been his 100th birthday, the same year the New Orleans airport was renamed Louis Armstrong International Airport. The artist often stated in public interviews that he was born on July 4, 1900 (Independence Day), a date that has been noted in many biographies. Armstrong died in 1971 and his true birthdate, August 4, 1901, was not discovered until the mid-1980s. Louis Armstrong was raised in a poor section of New Orleans known as “Jane Alley.” Throughout his career, he entertained millions – from heads of state and royalty to the neighborhood kids on his stoop in Corona, New York. Despite his fame, he lived a simple life in a working-class neighborhood. The man known around the world as “Satchmo,” short for Satchelmouth, was widely recognized as a founding father of jazz – a unique American art form. In 1932, Melody Maker magazine editor Percy Brooks greeted Armstrong in London with "Hello, Satchmo!” and the nickname stuck. His influence as an artist and cultural icon is universal, unmatched and very much alive today. -
07 Feb 22
Partner News
Now You See Me – Louisiana TravelWhat better location to wrap up a movie about magic than at a magical-looking ...Read moreNow You See Me – Louisiana Travel - News & announcementsWhat better location to wrap up a movie about magic than at a magical-looking carousel? The Carousel at New Orleans City Park is the setting for the reveal at the end of Now You See Me, starring Mark Ruffalo, Woody Harrelson, and Morgan Freeman. The young and young-at-heart can enjoy a ride on one of the fifty-six hand-carved animals – horses, a lion, giraffe, or camel. The Carousel dates back to 1906, but some of the animal figures date back to 1885; the whole structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And after a ride (or two, maybe), you can check out the rest of the magic in City Park – beautiful gardens, coffee and beignets, or even a gondola ride on the lakes. -
07 Feb 22
Partner News
Free State of Jones – Louisiana TravelBased on historical events, Free State of Jones is a dramatization of a group ...Read moreFree State of Jones – Louisiana Travel - News & announcementsBased on historical events, Free State of Jones is a dramatization of a group of Mississippi residents who broke from the Confederacy during the Civil War. Filmed primarily in Louisiana, the Matthew McConaughey and Gugu Mbatha-Raw-led project included 3 actual direct descendants of Newton Knight as extras in the movie. While some of the more remote areas of Chicot State Park were used for the scenes where the group hid out in swamps, visitors can check out downtown Clinton – a couple of hours’ drive from the park – for town scenes from the movie. The East Feliciana Courthouse is the oldest continuously-used courthouse in the state, and has been featured in many films due to its striking architecture. Chicot State Park admission: $3/person, free for seniors 62 and older and for children 3 and younger -
07 Feb 22
Partner News
Celebrate Summer Festivals in LouisianaThere’s no better way to spend a summer vacation than at one (or more) ...Read moreCelebrate Summer Festivals in Louisiana - News & announcementsThere’s no better way to spend a summer vacation than at one (or more) of Louisiana’s festivals.*Always check the festival websites for the most up-to-date information, as events and dates are subject to change. With more than 400 fairs and festivals scheduled annually around the state, you can consider Louisiana the "festival capital of the world." Make a trip to celebrate some of our favorite things here in Louisiana – food, music and culture. Here’s just a sampling of what festivals we have to offer during the summertime.Food Festivals
In Louisiana, we know how to eat. So much so that we find reason to celebrate! At festivals like the Beauregard Watermelon Festival and the French Market Creole Tomato Festival, fresh local produce is honored. Check out the melon carving and canning contests at the Watermelon Fest, and see the Ripe & Ready Secondline while sipping a bloody Mary at the Creole Tomato Fest. Seafood is abundant in Louisiana, and there are several great places to get a taste during the summer. The Jean Lafitte Seafood Festival, taste Cajun and Creole food or take a swamp tour adventure. The Louisiana Catfish Festival takes place in Des Allemands, officially proclaimed as the Catfish Capital of the Universe in 1980, so you know it’s the real deal. Try a catfish po’boy, catfish platter, catfish boulettes and more. Delcambre Shrimp Festival offers signature shrimp dishes like boiled and fried shrimp, shrimp sauce piquante, shrimp salad and more. Delcambre is a productive shrimping town, so the bounty is super fresh. And of course, grabbing a Natchitoches meat pie at the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival is a must – it’s the city’s signature dish! Can’t pick a dish? Got a craving for Cajun flavor? Get a sampling of it all at the Cajun Music & Food Festival in Lake Charles!Tap your toes at the Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Festival in Opelousas.
Cool off with juicy watermelon at the Beauregard Watermelon Festival.
Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival Parade.
Get your groove on at the Baton Rouge Blues Fest.Music Festivals
At any moment, Louisiana is filled with the sounds of jazz, zydeco, blues and everything in between. Ever heard of swamp pop music? Experience this unique music genre at the Swamp Pop Music Festival in Gonzales. Hear the accordions and washboards of Cajun and Zydeco music at the Lebeau Zydeco Festival, the Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Festival in Opelousas and the Mamou Cajun Music Festival where you’ll be sure to get up on your feet and cut a rug. In addition to Cajun music, the Marshland Festival in Hackberry features popular country and classic rock performers. Fan of the blues? The Highland Jazz & Blues Festival in Shreveport and the Baton Rouge Blues Festival are must-visits. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the Satchmo SummerFest in New Orleans, which celebrates the life, music, and legacy of Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong. The multi-day festival features intellectual seminars from well-known jazz and music scholars, along impressive music ranging from traditional and contemporary jazz to brass bands and more.Cultural Festivals
Louisiana has such a strong history that influenced the economy, culture and traditions that are still not only practiced, but celebrated, to this day. In Morgan City, the Louisiana Shrimp & Petroleum Festival honors both the local fishermen and petroleum industry that have influenced the area. The Blessing of the Fleet and water parade on Berwick Bay highlights participating shrimp boats, pleasure craft and the biggest "muscle boats" of the oilpatch. While in town, take a tour of the Mr. Charlie Oil Rig - the only place in the world where the general public can walk aboard an authentic offshore drilling rig. Since 1949, the Louisiana Cattle Festival & Fair in Abbeville has celebrated the state’s cattle industry with Outstanding Cattleman, Restauranteur of the Year, Cattle Livestock Show. And since 1937, the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival has celebrated the sweetest thing of all – sugar – with a Blessing of the Crops and a parade with the reigning King Sucrose and Queen Sugar. In 1977, a trademark bearing the title "Gueydan, LA. - Duck Capital of America" was recorded and validated with the Secretary of State. The Gueydan Duck Festival, appropriately, highlights the hunting heritage of the Acadiana region, the Duck Festival a Duck and Goose Calling Contest, Skeet Shooting, Dog Trials, Duck Dash, and Decoy Carving. Last, but certainly not least, Essence Festival is the largest African-American culture and music event in the United States. Attendees to the New Orleans festival experience panel discussions, demonstrations, workshops, shopping, meet and greets, and live music featuring some of the best in R&B, soul, funk, gospel and hip-hop. We’ve always believed that there’s more fun to have in Louisiana than just about anywhere else. If this list of incredible festivals hasn’t convinced you, come on over and let us show you in person. Foodies, adventure-seekers, heritage lovers and fun-seeking families will not be disappointed with all there is to do at Louisiana’s festivals. For more about Louisiana’s abundance of food, music, culture and every quirky festival in-between, take a peek at our festivals calendar. Find more festival fun with Louisiana’s Spring Festivals and Fall Festivals. -
25 Jan 22
Partner News
Ready, Set, Start Planning! It’s time to clock out and plan your Louisiana vacationDoes too much screen time have you daydreaming? It's time for a change of ...Read moreReady, Set, Start Planning! It’s time to clock out and plan your Louisiana vacation - News & announcementsDoes too much screen time have you daydreaming? It's time for a change of scenery, so make plans for that long-awaited trip to Louisiana. Let your hair down and indulge in a few unforgettable meals or tap your toe to a familiar beat you haven't heard in a while.Plan your road trip itinerary
Whether you visit Louisiana’s big cities or take the back roads to experience the charm of Louisiana’s quaint small towns, you’ll be welcomed with open arms. Dine at world-renowned restaurants or hole-in-the-wall eateries, shop for handmade trinkets by local artists and experience each city and town’s distinctive culture and hidden treasures. Learn about some of our most out-of-the-way places and learn why Louisiana is a Trip.Let the good times roll with live music!Taste Louisiana Seafood.Paddle our trails.Stroll through history.Make unforgettable memories at a Louisiana Festival
When you arrive, you will find there is always a reason to laissez les bons temps rouler (let the good times roll) in Louisiana! Our rich culture of music, food, heritage and more means we are always celebrating with a festival! Mardi Gras is back this year and promises to be better than ever. Whether you're craving the traditional mega-parades in New Orleans or Houma or a rural Courir de Mardi Gras complete with chicken chases, there's plenty of celebrating to go around. If a springtime trip is on your mind, check out the just-released 2022 New Orleans Jazz Fest lineup here! After two years of virtual events, this year's Jazz Fest promises to be unparalelled. Catch the Mudbug Madness Festival in Shreveport during the summer. Or set the plate for the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival during early fall. Experience Cajun culture at the Festival International de Louisiane or Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival in the south. Head to the capital city for Baton Rouge Blues Festival in the spring or Jambalaya Festival in the summer. Love strawberries? Attend the summertime Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival in Tangipahoa Parish. Travel way down south in October for the famous Rougarou Fest in Houma, a legendary celebration! And in New Orleans, the good times don’t stop, as it hosts a variety of unique festivals most weekends. It’s easy to make festival plans on vacation in Louisiana! Plan your trip around annual festivals, or check out what events are happening when you get here.Pay a visit to a Louisiana State Museum
Immerse yourself in Louisiana’s arts and history at one of the nine state museums dotted across the state. From sports or Jazz to aviation or Mardi Gras – you’ll find a unique and fascinating exhibition for every topic of interest. Speaking of Mardi Gras, you won't want to miss Rex: The 150th Anniversary of the School of Design at The Presbytére. Get familiar before you drop in with these virtual gallery tours and experiences.Stay awhile at a Louisiana State Park
Breathe in that fresh Louisiana air in the great outdoors. Get in on the action and participate in water sports, cast a line, view Louisiana’s wildlife, trek through hiking trails and more. Louisiana’s state parks are the perfect spot for outdoor recreation. Stay overnight at any of our park cabins and wake up to the peace and quiet only pure nature can bring. Or even explore your camping options. Nine of our Louisiana State Parks now offer glamping; check out the details and book your tent here.Indulge in the life-changing cuisine
We'd put money on you having the best meal of your life right here in Louisiana. From restaurants that have been serving up incredible meals for over 100 years to gas stations that have the best yam cake you'll ever eat, Louisiana has no shortage of meals that will leave their mark in your memory. If you’re looking for the full, cultural experience, challenge yourself to try each of these classic Louisiana dishes:Then don’t forget, we've got our fair share of craft breweries, distilleries and even a few wineries!Immerse yourself in your surroundings
See the Bayou State from the Red River in the North to the mouth of the Mississippi River down South. Get up close and personal with our unique landscape on a swamp tour when you airboat, kayak or cruise through the Bayou. And with year-round hunting, fishing, golf and countless other opportunities for outdoor recreation, it is easy to see why Louisiana's nickname is "Sportsman's Paradise."Plan For The Vacation You Deserve
Book your airfare today or map out the perfect road trip route. Then order your copy of the Louisiana Sunshine Magazine for more insider tips on where to go and what to see.