French Quarter Fest announces 2023 music lineup for 40th-anniversary event

NEW ORLEANS (NOLA WEEKEND) - French Quarter Festival announced the music lineup for its 40th-anniversary event returning on April 13 to April 16.

Organizers say more than 50 artists will make their festival debut, including a special featured performance by the Soul Rebels and Big Freedia.

Artists making their debut include Flagboy Giz and the Wild Tchoupitoulas, Ani DiFranco, Iceman Special, Dee1, Los Güiros, Jason Neville Funky Soul Band, Michael Doucet & Lacher Prise, Grace Gibson and LeTrainiump.

Notable favorites returning to stages include Tank and the Bangas, John Boutté, Sweet Crude, Robin Barnes and the Fiyabirds, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band.

Known as the largest free festival and showcase of Louisiana music, this year’s event will feature more than 270 performances on 20 stages and more than 60 food vendors.

New to the food lineup for 2023 is Boulevard Bistro serving up Boulevard Oysters with Crispy Gulf Oysters, Cream Spinach, and Crystal Aioli in their debut year.

Other returning food vendors include Addis Nola, Walker’s Southern Style BBQ, Patton’s, Morrow’s, and Ajun Cajun. Vaucresson’s Sausage Co., which has been a part of the French Quarter Festival journey since 1984 also returns to the lineup.

In celebration of the 40th anniversary, organizers say they are planning a special opening day lineup which will kick off with a festive parade featuring brass bands and festival mascots and will culminate with a fireworks display over the Mississippi River following the performance by Irma Thomas, Soul Queen of New Orleans. 

“It is an honor to be a part of such a wonderful organization that has stood the test of time,” Emily Madero, president & CEO of FQFI, said in a release. “FQFI is proud to say we have stayed committed to our mission for four decades, providing a platform for local artists, chefs, and restaurants to showcase their talents. And for our fans, we are even more excited to offer an authentic and memorable experience April 13-16, we invite the whole family to help us make history for our 40th-year milestone.”

The four-day festival will operate from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. each day of the event.

Organizers say the complete schedule will be released in late March. See the full music lineup at the website, frenchquarterfest.org.

Copyright 2023 WVUE. All rights reserved.