French Quarter Fest - need 2 full days?

Question

We arrive Thurs, 4/10 ahead of a cruise and are planning it around the FQF. None of us have ever been to a NOLA festival so I'm curious if you all feel like wandering around the quarter eating and enjoying music will be fun for two whole days or should we do a swamp tour on Saturday? Thanks for your insight on how much there is to do/see at FQF to fill 2 days.

Answer

It sounds like you're in for an exciting time in New Orleans with the French Quarter Festival (FQF)! This is a fantastic event, and there's certainly enough to do to keep you busy for two full days. Here's some insight on what you can expect from the festival and whether you might want to fit in a swamp tour:

What to Expect at the French Quarter Festival:

The French Quarter Festival is one of New Orleans' most beloved events, offering a great combination of music, food, and the unique culture of the city. If you enjoy live music, eating, and soaking up the local atmosphere, you could definitely fill two days at the festival. Here's why:

Live Music: The festival features over 20 stages spread throughout the French Quarter, with a wide variety of genres, from jazz to blues to funk. You can easily spend hours walking from one stage to the next, enjoying both well-known local musicians and up-and-coming acts.
Delicious Food: The FQF is a foodie’s dream. There are tons of food booths offering local favorites like gumbo, crawfish, jambalaya, po'boys, and beignets. The food is one of the highlights of the event, and it’s definitely worth spending time sampling different dishes.
The Atmosphere: The French Quarter itself is an iconic and beautiful place to explore. During the festival, the area is filled with both locals and tourists, making it lively and vibrant. You’ll be able to enjoy the festive atmosphere while wandering through the colorful streets, visiting shops, and taking in the sights of the historic buildings and courtyards.
Parades & Special Events: Depending on the schedule, you might also find some parades or special events happening during the festival. The music and street performances can make for a unique, authentic New Orleans experience.

Do You Need Two Full Days for FQF?

Yes, you could easily fill two days exploring the French Quarter Festival! Between the stages, the food, and just wandering around the lively atmosphere, there’s always something new to discover. Plus, the festival runs from late morning to evening, so you can make the most of the time you have. If you're really into music and food, two days will allow you to take in a wide variety of performances and enjoy different cuisines without feeling rushed.

Should You Do a Swamp Tour on Saturday?

If you feel like taking a break from the festival, a swamp tour can be an exciting and unique experience. New Orleans is known for its beautiful and mysterious bayous, and a swamp tour would give you a chance to see local wildlife, like alligators, and learn about the area's natural ecosystem. However, keep in mind that Saturday might be busier at the festival, so you would be missing out on some of the activities if you decide to leave the French Quarter for the day.

Pros of a Swamp Tour: It’s a fun, relaxing way to see a different side of Louisiana's nature and escape the festival crowds for a few hours. Plus, it’s a great way to cool off and enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Cons of a Swamp Tour: You’ll miss out on some of the festival activities, which could be a bummer if you're only in town for a short period. The tour might also take up most of the day, so you'd need to plan carefully if you want to balance both experiences.

My Recommendation:

If you’re attending the French Quarter Festival for the first time, I recommend spending the full two days enjoying it if you can. It’s a special event that really captures the spirit of New Orleans. However, if you're someone who loves nature and feels like you need a break from the crowds, a swamp tour would definitely be a great way to mix things up. You could even consider fitting it in on another day if your schedule allows.

In the end, both options—immersing yourself in the festival or taking a swamp tour—will give you a memorable experience, so it just depends on how much of the festival you want to experience versus wanting some quiet time in nature.

French Quarter Fest - need 2 full days?

More New Orleans Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions