WHY STAY AT FOUR SEASONS FOR FESTIVALS?
FESTIVAL SEASON SCHEDULE 2026
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage FestivalApril 23 – May 3, 2026Jazz Fest is a defining cultural experience of New Orleans. Held over two weekends at the Fair Grounds Race Course, about 15 to 20 minutes from Four Seasons, it brings together 13 stages of gospel, jazz, rock and more. We recommend going to the Gospel Tent for spiritual renewal, the Congo Square stage for African diaspora rhythms and the Crawfish Monica food stand. Our Concierge can arrange a private SUV transfer to the designated drop-off zones, or we can organize electric bike rentals for a ride up the Esplanade Avenue bike path. Grand Marshal VIP passes grant you upfront viewing access and access to the air-conditioned hospitality tent with private restrooms. Ask our Concierge about the Sauvage Street Gate for a faster entry.
FRENCH QUARTER FESTApril 16–19, 2026The largest free music festival in the U.S., this local favourite transforms the French Quarter and Woldenberg Park into a vibrant, open-air venue set along the Mississippi River. With riverfront stages just steps from the Hotel, you’re the only guests in the city who can slip back to your room for a refresh in minutes before heading back out. Highlights include the “World’s Largest Jazz Brunch” in Woldenberg Park and dancing through the Royal Street corridor, while Saturday night’s fireworks are best enjoyed from our fifth-floor pool deck – reserve a cabana early for a more private view.
Bayou BoogalooMay 15–17, 2026For a truly local experience, Bayou Boogaloo offers a unique twist on the New Orleans music festival, taking place right on the water along Bayou St. John, about a 15-minute drive from Four Seasons. Held in Mid-City, this laid-back event features locals floating on kayaks, homemade barges and inflatables while live bands perform from the banks, creating a relaxed alternative to the larger festival crowds. Allow our Concierge to arrange lunch at a nearby Mid-City favourite like Toups’ Meatery, and then stroll the bayou under the oak trees while taking in the music.
Greek FestMay 22–24, 2026One of the city’s oldest and most family-friendly cultural celebrations, Greek Fest takes over the grounds of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, just a 12-minute drive from Four Seasons. Known for its lively atmosphere rather than big-name acts, it is a joyful celebration of Hellenic heritage with traditional dancing, an Agora market filled with imported goods and some of the best culinary pop-ups in the city. Highlights include authentic souvlaki, dancing along Bayou St. John and the must-try loukoumades, best enjoyed on a relaxed Sunday evening visit.
New Orleans Wine and Food ExperienceJune 10–14, 2026For the epicurean traveller, NOWFE is the pinnacle of the season, bringing together global vintners and New Orleans’ James Beard Award–winning chefs for a series of intimate dinners, grand tastings and seminars. This sophisticated, walkable event spans venues throughout the CBD and French Quarter, with Four Seasons conveniently located between the two, making it easy to explore on foot or with a short car transfer, depending on the event. Highlights include top chefs pairing dishes with premier international wines and the Royal Street Stroll, a lively tasting experience through the heart of the Quarter, while tickets for the Grand Tasting often sell out months in advance, so early planning is highly recommended.
NOLA Crawfish FestivalApril/MayHeld between Jazz Fest weekends, the NOLA Crawfish Festival is an intimate, culinary-focused event where expert boilers compete for the title of champion, pairing unlimited tastings of high-quality seafood with live funk and brass bands in a relaxed, backyard-style setting. Located at The Broadside, about 2.5 miles from Four Seasons, it is best reached by rideshare or private car. As the ultimate foodie festival, it offers a more personal experience centred entirely on the craft of the boil, and we recommend arriving hungry, dressing comfortably and picking up refreshing towels at the Hotel before you go.
New Orleans Essence Festival of CultureJuly 4–6, 2026Essence Festival, known as the “party with a purpose,” brings top names in R&B and hip hop to the Caesars Superdome each night, alongside a full schedule of daytime panels and experiences at the Convention Center, both just moments from Four Seasons. The Convention Center is within walking distance, while evening concerts are best accessed by streetcar or pre-arranged transfer due to heavy traffic. The weekend is defined by its iconic performances, a dynamic Expo featuring beauty, wellness and shopping, and a strong sense of personal style. Visit our Chandelier Bar before heading out.
Freret Street FestivalTaking place in one of the city’s most revitalized corridors, the Freret Street Festival is a vibrant street fair centered on local commerce and community, spanning eight walkable blocks with three music stages and more than 150 vendors offering art, jewellery and crafts. Located about 3.5 miles from Four Seasons, it is the perfect place to find authentic New Orleans souvenirs without the tourist markup while enjoying a lively neighbourhood atmosphere. While you are there, we recommend making the most of Freret Street’s dining scene with a stop at High Hat Cafe or Cure, a James Beard Award–winning cocktail bar.
HOGS FOR THE CAUSEApril 10–11, 2026A favourite combining BBQ, live music and philanthropy, this festival brings together teams competing for the title of grand champion while raising millions for pediatric brain cancer. Held at the UNO Lakefront Arena Grounds, about a 20- to 25-minute drive from Four Seasons, it is best experienced with a dedicated driver so you can fully enjoy the beer and bourbon pairings. Highlights include the Friday Bacon Night and Saturday’s whole-hog roasts, all set against the atmosphere of a lively, high-end tailgate. Judging samples go quickly, so for the best experience, speak with our Concierge about connecting with a team tent offering hospitality access for a charitable donation.
FAQ
All of the festivals are great for families. French Quarter Fest and Greek Fest have dedicated areas that are wonderful for families. Jazz Fest also features a dedicated Kids Tent. We can arrange childcare services if you wish to enjoy the headliners in an adults-only environment.
For Jazz Fest and Essence Festival, we recommend booking your accommodations at least two months in advance, or as soon as possible, as the city reaches full capacity. Dining reservations should be made 60 days out.
While tickets must generally be purchased through official festival vendors, our Concierge can assist you in navigating the options to ensure you select the best VIP or hospitality packages available.
Our riverfront location offers unbeatable walkability for several major events. During French Quarter Festival, the stages begin at our front door along the riverfront and Woldenberg Park. During Essence Festival, the daytime seminars at the Convention Center are a short 5-minute walk. The evening concerts at the Superdome are a manageable 20-minute walk or a quick streetcar ride away. Most New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE) events take place in the French Quarter or CBD, easily accessible on foot. For Jazz Fest and Hogs for the Cause, we recommend using private car service as they are located several miles away.
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