French Quarter Events

Our curated list of upcoming neighborhood happenings is updated each Tuesday, so check back often!

Photo: Riverfest 2023 by Melanie Cole - details below!

FQJ’s On the Horizon

New Orleans Cocktail Week: September 15 - 21

International Arts Festival: Sept. 25 - 28

NOLA X NOLA: September 25 - Oct 5

Improvisations Gala at the Jazz Museum with Storyville theme: December 6th

Photo: Chris Hanna working his Sazerac magic behind the bar at Jewel of the South, FQJ archives by Ellis Anderson

FQJ’s Don’t-Miss List

Saturday, Sept. 20th: 9am – 4pm

Beautiful Spaces Symposium

Historical Textiles in Home Design, Historic BK House, 1113 Chartres Street

  • ~ The Beautiful Spaces Symposium at Historic BK House & Gardens celebrates the rich tradition of textiles in Southern home design.

    ~ This year, we’re shining a spotlight on the stories and techniques behind heirloom quilts, intricate needlework, and the everyday beauty of cotton and linen.

    ~ Join fellow makers, collectors, history fans, and design lovers as we explore:

    • The artistry and cultural meaning of historical textiles

    • How handmade fabrics have shaped the look and feel of Southern homes

    • Creative ways to bring these traditions into your own spaces

    ~ Expect hands-on demos, fresh insights from leading experts, and plenty of time to connect with friends old and new in New Orleans’ most welcoming historic setting.

    ~ Whether you’re deep into fiber arts or just curious about design with character, this year’s Symposium is packed with inspiration and community.

Saturday, September 20th - 10am - 2pm

Family Day: The Trail They Blazed

The Historic New Orleans Collection, 520 Royal Street

  • ~ Museum lovers of all ages are invited to a special Family Day celebrating The Trail They Blazed, HNOC’s exhibition about the Civil Rights Movement in New Orleans.

    ~ Presented in collaboration with Young Audiences of Louisiana (YALA), this free event will feature story times, live music, hands-on activities, gallery talks, and exciting surprises from special guests!

    ~ Admission is free and open to the public, with registration encouraged.

Wednesday, September 24th - shows at 5pm – 6pm

Sharon Nabonne and Friends

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, 626 Frenchmen Street

Free performance, seating on first-come, first-serve basis

  • ~ FQJ’s Pick of the Week: September 24: A rare performance by Sharon Nabonne, free!

    Sharon Nabonne is a gifted vocalist with deep roots in New Orleans musical theater, as well as jazz, r&b, and gospel genres.

    ~Rising to prominence in One Mo’ Time, she built a career defined by dynamic collaborations with city legends like Allen Toussaint, Dr. John, and Lee Dorsey.

    ~Her guest performances at the iconic Palm Court Jazz Café and other local venues further illustrate her role as a cherished and enduring figure in her city’s cultural tapestry.

    The featured artists include:
    Sharon Nabonne - Vocals
    Herman LeBeaux Jr. - Drums
    Kerry Lewis Sr. - Bass
    Steve Pistorius - Piano

    Free performance!

    Click here to get tickets and see what other fabulous goodness Snug has in store for the month!

Thursday - Sunday, Sept. 25th - 28th

Faulkner For All Literary Festival

  • Historic BK House, 113 Chartres Street

  • Hotel Provincial, 1024 Chartres Street

  • Miller Hall, Loyola University, 6363 St. Charles Avenue

  • St. Mary’s Chapel and Garden, Ursulines Convent, 1116 Chartres Street

  • ~ Panels with writers, agents, publishers and an incredible array of special events, culminating with awards and the 35th annual Black Tie Meeting on Sunday with drinks, dinner and dancing in the gardens of Ursulines Convent.

    Packages or attend sessions a la carte!

    Full schedule here.

Friday, October 3: 5pm - 8pm

1st Friday on Royal

Artwalk in the lower blocks of Royal Street

Art, Music, Drinks

  • On the first Friday of every month, participating locations will stay open late from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering a special opportunity to meet artists, view and purchase art, and enjoy wine, conversation, and even live music at select venues.

    Galleries and artist-run studios along Royal Street will showcase their latest works, making it the perfect evening to experience the vibrant creative community of the French Quarter.

    The Royal Street Arts District is home to over 40 galleries, studios, and shops celebrating local and regional artistry.

  • Below are 50 upcoming events happening in the FQ and surrounding neighborhoods. Want even more? Click the button at the bottom, which will take you to our FB Events page.

  • Our events are curated. For a complete list of live music happenings in the city, check out WWOZ’s Livewire Music Calendar!

  • Join our Readers’ Circle.

  • Have a story idea? Are you a writer with a pitch? Email us.