NOLA River Fest
New Orleans wouldn’t be New Orleans without the Mississippi River. NOLA River Fest celebrates the mighty waterway that has shaped our geography, economy, culture, music, and way of life for generations.
The free annual festival takes over the New Orleans Jazz Museum with live music, local food and drinks, presentations, panel discussions and more. It all gets started with an 11 a.m. second line from Jackson Square to the Jazz Museum.
Why We Recommend It
We love a festival that could only happen in New Orleans. River Fest mixes music and food with fascinating stories and conversations about the river that made this city possible — and what it will take to protect our waterways and communities for generations to come.
Don’t Miss
- The 11 a.m. second line from Jackson Square • Live music throughout the day • Discussions about the river, canals, green infrastructure and Louisiana waterways • Local food and drinks • Free admission
Local Tip
Come early and grab breakfast first at Cafe Beignet, right across from Jackson Square.