April in New Orleans is a symphony of sights, sounds, and flavors that beckon both locals and visitors to indulge. The streets come alive with the rhythms of jazz and the city’s vibrant culture thrives in full swing. While the days are pleasantly warm, the occasional drizzle is a reminder of the unpredictable charm of New Orleans, perfect for a light jacket and a stroll through the bustling streets.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, or Jazz Fest, is one of the city’s biggest events, attracting global crowds every year. Spanning two weekends (April 24-May 4, 2025), the festival features 14 stages, signature food, and a stellar lineup, including Pearl Jam, Lil' Wayne & The Roots, and Kacey Musgraves, alongside many more legendary artists. It’s a celebration of music, culture, and food that draws people from around the world.
April begins with the Freret Street Festival, usually taking place on the first Saturday of April. This festival highlights the neighborhood's local businesses, live music, delicious food, and vibrant community in the Uptown area. With a welcoming atmosphere for families and pets, and a strong focus on supporting local, the Freret Street Festival is the ideal way to kick off the festival season.
A favorite among locals and increasingly popular with visitors, the French Quarter Festival is a cherished annual event held in mid-spring, honoring one of New Orleans' most iconic neighborhoods: the French Quarter. Spanning from Jackson Square to Woldenberg Park, the festival offers attendees a chance to enjoy live local music, classic New Orleans cuisine, and the vibrant culture that makes the French Quarter so enchanting.
The Historic French Quarter Easter Parade begins at Tableau Restaurant at 9:45 a.m. on Easter Sunday. The parade, featuring carriages, classic convertibles and revelers throwing Easter trinkets to the onlookers, travels to St. Louis Cathedral for 11 a.m. Mass. After Mass, the ladies will promenade in Jackson Square to show off their Easter bonnets and outfits before returning to Antoine’s. Awards are given out for the best Easter bonnets, Easter baskets and overall Easter attire.
The NOLA Crawfish Fest takes place outdoors at The Broadside and is an annual celebration of everything crawfish. Hosted during the week between Jazz Fest weekends, this festival invites attendees to indulge in thousands of pounds of freshly boiled crawfish prepared by the Crawfish King himself, Chris "Shaggy" Davis. In addition to the star of the show, you can enjoy award-winning BBQ and other Louisiana delicacies each day. It’s the perfect festival for seafood lovers and anyone craving authentic Louisiana flavor!
04/02/2025 - Wednesday at the Square Concert Series
04/03/2025 - Overlook Film Festival
04/04/2025 - Elixir of Love
04/08/2025 - "Hamilton"
04/10/2025 - French Quarter Festival
04/10/2025 - The Clowncil: Ensemble-devised Showcase of Theatrical Clowning
04/19/2025 - Crescent City Classic
04/21/2025 - Zurich Golf Classic
04/24/2025 - New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
04/25/2025 - Zoo-To-Do for Kids
04/27/2025 - A Night Show with Kris Newman: Stand-up Comedy, Interviews, Sketch, & More!
04/28/2025 - NOLA Crawfish Festival