summer 2025

French Quarterly Summer Festivals

May 20, 2025

June 7–8, 2025
The French Market Creole Tomato Festival
The 39th Annual French Market Creole Tomato Festival is a cherished summer tradition in New Orleans that honors the region's renowned Creole tomatoes through food, music, and family activities. This signature festival marks the official start of summer, featuring fresh local produce, live entertainment and a variety of tomato-based dishes. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The festival takes place at the historic French Market, located at 1235 N. Peters St. This free and open-to-the-public event spans the French Market district, from Dutch Alley to Farmers Market.

Beat the Summertime Blues Noteworthy Musical Shows that Are Sure to Cure!

by Cheryl Lemoine

May 20, 2025

Don’t skip a beat this summer as music takes center stage in the Big Easy. From world-renowned classical master Andrea Bocelli and celebrated reggae superstar Stephen Marley, to one-of-a-kind comic maestro “Weird Al” Yankovich, there’s no shortage of pitch-perfect performances that are sure to strike a chord. If live theater is music to your ears, then Broadway hits Chicago and Ain’t Misbehavin’ promise to hit all the right notes. Rock on!

Caesars Superdome – caesarssuperdome.com
July 4–6: Essence Festival of Culture

From the Seventh Ward to the Vatican - The Creole Heritage of Pope Leo XIV

by Kim Welsh

May 20, 2025

Following the inspiring announcement of Robert Francis Prevost as the first American pope, Historic New Orleans Collection's genealogist Jari C. Honora made a remarkable discovery, shedding light on the pontiff's maternal grandparents who were Creoles of color from the Seventh Ward. A groundbreaking moment unfolded on May 8 as Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was elected, breaking barriers as the first American and Creole pope. Jari C. Honora made this thrilling discovery about the pope's Creole ancestry just hours after the papal announcement was made public.

The Jazz Museum Leaps Into the Future

by Kim Welsh

May 20, 2025

The New Orleans Jazz Museum, long dedicated to preserving the city's profound cultural traditions, is taking a bold leap into the future. With a new focus on harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, immersive technology, and educational innovation, the museum is embracing its dual role as both a guardian of history and a catalyst for transformation in New Orleans' cultural economy.

Savor Every Bite! New to the Big Easy Dining Scene

by Michelle Jones

May 20, 2025

New Orleans was founded 307 years ago and boasts wonderfully old architecture and a storied history. Part of that history is the stunning evolution of New Orleans cuisine, drawing from many cultures and creating something unique. There are so many new and wonderful restaurants, menus and locations popping up in the French Quarter all the time! Here is a look at some of what is new in the French Quarter and surrounding area these days.

Athenian Bar and Grill – 301 Decatur St., www.athenianfood.com

Beat the Heat! Sip Revitalizing Cocktails!

by Kim Welsh

May 20, 2025

As New Orleans transitions into her sultry summer persona, the city's legendary cocktail culture goes into overdrive. Locals understand that staying cool while basking in the season's vibrant atmosphere is a delicate art. We would like to offer summer sipping suggestions in the city that pioneered the world's first cocktail, the Sazerac. New Orleans cocktails are a harmonious blend of tradition, creativity and local ingredients. Grab an icy refreshing drink, sit back, and experience the unique flavors and atmosphere that make the Big Easy a cocktail lover’s paradise.

Take a Stroll Down Royal Street - Discover the Magic of Art

by Kim Welsh

May 20, 2025

Danny DeLancey, a self-taught Louisiana artist, has painted in New Orleans' historic French Quarter for over twenty years. Renowned for his vibrant acrylic paintings, DeLancey's artistic career also spans graphic design and curation of several New Orleans art galleries.