The French Market Springs into Action! A bevy of celebrations from Tomatoes to Pride

March 03, 2023
Now that spring has sprung, the French Market District is in full bloom with an abundance of colorful festivals and exciting events for the whole family. While there are always treasures to be discovered—from original works of fine art to kitschy souvenirs, and tasty culinary creations to dig into—these lively and entertaining socials make spending a day at the French Market a must!

March kicks off with the annual St. Joseph’s Day Celebration in the Farmers’ Market on Saturday, March 4 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Featured festivities include panel discussions and interviews with iconic New Orleans Black Masking Indians, as well as New Orleanians of Sicilian decent, all of which will share the history of the holiday and cultural traditions of their respective communities. While enjoying the celebration, treat yourself to a delicious fresh fruit smoothie or daiquiri from Organic Banana, or indulge in a classic, French-style sweet or savory crepe, made fresh to order at Holy Crepes.

On March 10, make your way to the Farmers’ Market to enjoy Making A Jazz Gumbo with the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, located on Decatur Street, to enjoy Making A Jazz Gumbo. The free presentation combines two of the jewels of New Orleans—food and music. The perfect Big Easy pairing of a lively musical performance with a fiery cooking demonstration is sure to excite your senses.

May ushers in National Asian Pacific American Heritage month, to so honor and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the AAPI community, The French Market and Asian Pacific American Society will co-host the Asian Pacific American Heritage Celebration on Saturday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Don’t miss this colorful fete showcasing memorable cultural performances, authentic cuisine, and community organizations representing Asian Pacific American communities in New Orleans.

On Saturday, June 3, head to Crescent Park, a sprawling 20-acre urban linear park located along the Mississippi River front, to celebrate Pride Month. A Picnic for All Y’all, held from 2 to 6 p.m., will be an inclusive afternoon highlighting top-notch entertainment, community-based organizations and family fun. While visiting Crescent Park, enjoy breathtaking views of the Crescent City, native landscaping, bike paths, and be sure to bring your pooch along for a game of fetch in the dog park.

If you’re lucky enough to be in the Big Easy on June 10 or 11, then the French Market’s Annual Creole Tomato Festival is not to be missed! This well-seasoned (this being the 37th year), food-centric shindig shines the spotlight on one of the state’s most beloved and sought after delicacies—the Creole tomato. Join the fun as we celebrate the bounty of southeast Louisiana with two stages of musical entertainment from outstanding local performers, delectable Creole tomato dishes crafted by some of the city’s most talented chefs, a spirited Bloody Mary Market, and fun-filled activities for the kid-o’s. Devotees of the seasonal, homegrown treat can also grab a to-go box of vine-ripened, heirloom beauties, which are offered by local farmers, so you can whip up a culinary masterpiece at home.

For more information on events and festivals taking place at the French Market and a complete guide to visiting historic area, check out frenchmarket.org.