French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron, the largest showcase of Louisiana music, food, and culture in the world, begins Thursday, April 12 with 'Locals' Lagniappe Day'. Opening day highlights include the 10 a.m. kickoff parade from Bourbon Street to Jackson Square and music on six stages from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. On the Hilton Tricentennial Stage in Jackson Square, Preservation All-Stars kick off a full day of FREE music. Catch two Grammy-winning groups on the Chevron Cajun/Zydeco Stage when Lost Bayou Ramblers are followed by Chubby Carrier. Other Thursday performances include Panorama Jazz Band, Cupid and the Dance Party Express, Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha Chas, and Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Visit frenchquarterfest.org for the complete schedule.
