French Quarter Festival is held every year the 2nd weekend of April along the banks of the Mighty Mississippi River from Thursday to Sunday. FQF is a FREE music festival located in the historic French Quarter in New Orleans which is the oldest neighborhood in the US. The Free 4 day festival celebrates the culture with live music, local cuisine and art. There are over 20 music stages showcasing every genre of music from jazz to zydeco and restaurants serving their signature dishes. Always voted the favorite festival of New Orleanians.