Jazz Festivals 2025

Question

I plan to be in New Orleans this year at first weekend of the festivals

Today I have “discovered” there are two …

French Quarter festival and Jazz Festival.They are very different.

Is it possible to spend most of time at FQF and maybe to taste one or two events at the Jazz Festival ?

If there is an option to purchase ticket for a special event at the Jazz Festival?

Thank you in advance

Answer

It's great that you're planning to visit New Orleans during the jazz festivals! Both the French Quarter Festival (FQF) and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (commonly called Jazz Fest) are fantastic events, but they do have different vibes and schedules. Let me give you some details to help plan your trip:

The French Quarter Festival typically takes place in early April, while the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival usually occurs later in the month (late April to early May). The two events are close in timing, but they differ significantly in scale and atmosphere:

French Quarter Festival (FQF): This is a free, family-friendly festival that takes place throughout the historic French Quarter. It focuses on showcasing local music (including jazz, blues, and more), food, and culture. It’s a more intimate experience, with many stages set up outdoors in the Quarter, and you can easily wander from one event to another. If you love the charm of the French Quarter and want to immerse yourself in the city's local music scene, FQF is a great choice. You can easily spend most of your time here, exploring the different performances and enjoying local food and drinks.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (Jazz Fest): This is a much larger festival held at the Fair Grounds Race Course, with a lineup of both local and international artists. Jazz Fest is a huge celebration of New Orleans' musical heritage, but it also includes a variety of other genres, such as rock, blues, gospel, and more. The festival features multiple stages, food vendors, and cultural exhibits, and it's known for its large crowds and festive atmosphere. You’ll need to buy a ticket for this event, and it’s a full-day experience, so it's best to plan for a visit that allows you to take in the various performances. While it's more spread out than FQF, it offers a more diverse and extensive experience of New Orleans music.

To answer your questions directly:

Can you spend most of your time at the FQF and still attend some events at Jazz Fest? Yes, absolutely! While the French Quarter Festival is free and much more laid-back, you can easily catch a few events at Jazz Fest if you purchase tickets. The two festivals overlap, but since they are held in different locations (FQF in the French Quarter and Jazz Fest at the Fair Grounds), you'll need to plan your time wisely. It's possible to spend the majority of your time at FQF and then head over to Jazz Fest for a couple of specific performances or events. Keep in mind that the Fair Grounds is about a 10-15 minute drive from the French Quarter, so factor in travel time if you're planning to visit both on the same day.
Can you buy tickets for special events at Jazz Fest? Yes, Jazz Fest offers tickets for entry to the festival as a whole, and while individual special events (such as performances by specific artists) are included with the general admission, you can also purchase VIP or special packages that may include access to more exclusive areas, such as the Grandstand, VIP lounges, or special seating. There are also sometimes packages that provide extra perks, such as meet-and-greets or premium food options. The main way to experience the festival is by purchasing general admission tickets, but if you're looking for a more luxurious experience, there are VIP and upgraded options available.

Overall, both festivals offer unique experiences, and it’s definitely possible to enjoy both if you plan your time wisely. You can immerse yourself in the lively and intimate atmosphere of the French Quarter Festival and then take a day to experience the scale and diversity of Jazz Fest. Be sure to check the festival schedules as they get closer to your visit, so you can decide which performances or events are most important to you!