NEW ORLEANS — French Quarter Fest is celebrating another year of food, music and culture. This year's event will be even bigger with 22 stages, over 300 performances and a new DJ stage along the Riverfront.
"My team is always working really hard to hear from attendees about how we want to expand and evolve the festival year over year," said Emily Madero, President and CEO of FQF. "And also listening to our fans about what they want to hear and how we can grow."
Over 70 artists will make their FQF debut including the TBC Brass Band with HaSizzle, Ivan Neville, the Original Pinettes with Mia X and People Museum.
"When I performed for the first time at French Quarter Fest it was a dream come true," said renowned trumpet player and musician Troy Sawyer. "Because you have people all over the world that come to New Orleans to hear our music."
This year's French Quarter Festival takes place from April 11-14. See the full schedule here.
The festival is expanding this year. WWL Louisiana's Media Stage has a new spot, moving from the New Orleans Jazz Museum to Spanish Plaza. The Jack Daniels Stage, previously located on the riverfront is also moving to the Spanish Plaza; with performances by the Rebirth Brass Band, hip-hop legends Partners-N-Crime and a festival debut by Teedra Moses.
Festivalgoers can enjoy more than 60 culinary experiences, including Afrodisiac NOLA, Nori Guys, Sun Chong, Kingfish Kitchen & Cocktails, Voleo’s Seafood and more.
A new Culinary Stage features daily cooking demonstrations by Chef Kevin Belton and interviews.
"People come to New Orleans for food and music, but now they'll get to learn about it," said WWL's Chef Kevin Belton.
A new FQF After Dark experience will offer music late night at special venues around the city after festival stages close, including the Record Art Exhibit & music by Cole Williams Trio and at the ACE Hotel with Pat Casey & The New Sound featuring Robin Barnes.
FQF is also offering new VIP packages including a front-of-stage viewing option.
The annual French Quarter Festival Kickoff Parade is Thursday, Apr. 11 at 10 a.m.
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