French Quarter Fest Expands with More Music, Food, and First-Ever Fun Run

The annual celebration of New Orleans culture and community adds new experiences for 2026 edition.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:12am

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A dynamic abstract illustration featuring bold, angular shapes in red, white, and black, conveying the celebratory energy of a community festival.The French Quarter Festival's expanded footprint and new interactive experiences aim to capture the lively spirit of New Orleans.New Orleans Today

The French Quarter Festival in New Orleans is returning in 2026 with an expanded footprint, more musical performances than ever before, and a brand-new 5K fun run for attendees. Organizers say this year's event will be a spectacular celebration of the city's culture, music, and community.

Why it matters

The French Quarter Festival is a beloved annual tradition that showcases the unique spirit of New Orleans. By expanding the festival's offerings and adding new interactive elements like the fun run, organizers are aiming to attract even more locals and visitors to experience the city's vibrant music scene, diverse cuisine, and lively community atmosphere.

The details

The 2026 French Quarter Festival will feature an expanded festival area, allowing for more music stages and food vendors. Hometown favorite PJ Morton will be among the performers, joining a wide range of local artists representing the city's signature sound. In a first for the event, festivalgoers will also be able to participate in a 5K fun run, providing another way to experience the celebration. The festivities will kick off with an Opening Day Parade on Bourbon Street, leading to a brief opening ceremony before the Preservation Brass Band takes the stage.

  • The French Quarter Festival will take place from April 10-13, 2026.
  • The Opening Day Parade will start on the 200 block of Bourbon Street and make its way to Jackson Square on April 10, 2026.

The players

Emily Madero

CEO of the French Quarter Festival.

PJ Morton

A popular local musician and performer who will be returning to the French Quarter Festival.

Preservation Brass Band

A local brass band that will kick off the festival's opening weekend with a performance.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be a spectacular year. We've expanded, we've added more music, and we're bringing back some crowd favorites.”

— Emily Madero, CEO, French Quarter Festival

What’s next

Organizers are encouraging attendees to register early for the new 5K fun run, as spots are expected to fill up quickly.

The takeaway

The French Quarter Festival continues to evolve and grow, offering more ways for locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the unique culture, music, and community that make New Orleans such a special place. The addition of the fun run and expanded festival footprint will provide even more opportunities for people to experience the city's vibrant spirit.