2025 IMPACT

Community events produced by French Quarter Festivals, Inc. are more than entertainment—they’re lifelines for local musicians and vital cornerstones of Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage. Each event we create strengthens the social, cultural, and economic fabric of the greater New Orleans region.

FQFI is proud to share some of what we’ve achieved this year to support our people, celebrate our culture, and fuel our local economy.

Ps. We aren’t done yet! More accessible opportunities to enjoy local music and are coming up soon with the 2025 Holidays New Orleans Style concerts.

Musicians benefit from reliable employment opportunities, fair compensation, and a world-class platform to showcase their talents!

FQFI’s standard minimum rate was raised to $210 in 2025. This means that every musician FQFI hired was paid at least $210 to perform. Standard minimum rates create a more equitable pay structure across genres and stages.

Every performance serves to strengthen and grow our cultural identity; preserving and honoring our heritage while creating space for its continued evolution.

FQFI events are free to attend so that they are accessible to everyone, because inclusive and diverse events build community and improve quality of life. Accessible cultural programming is more than a convenience—it is essential.

This year, FQFI brought together hundreds of thousands of attendees—from down the block and around the world. Visitors discovered Louisiana’s magic, while locals celebrated their culture through the unifying power of live music. Experiences like this build pride of place and foster meaningful connections.

*Instances of attendance recorded over all days of FQF and SSF 2025.

Why is this important? It reflects the total estimated spending—from hotels and dining to transportation and more—by visitors from outside the metro area who traveled here specifically for FQFI events. In other words, new dollars flowing into the local economy.

Because FQFI produces its events using local talent, vendors, and suppliers, the money invested to generate this impact stays right here in our community. And since our events are free and open to all, everyone has the opportunity to participate and share in the celebration.

That’s called a WIN-WIN-WIN, y’all.

The spending generated by our events supported an estimated 2,939 local jobs. This goes beyond the musicians, chefs, production workers and local vendors engaged by FQFI; workers in many industries benefit economically from our events.

It’s not just individuals who are benefiting from FQFI events; the city and state will earn over $27 million in tax revenues generated by FQFI activities this year.

Through our Geauxing Green program, we diverted nearly 45% of total festival waste away from landfills in 2025. Responsible product sourcing, on-site waste sorting with recycling and composting, and public education keep New Orleans’ streets and waterways cleaner. We also eliminated over 300 gallons of fossil fuel usage through sustainable operations, including electric golf carts, battery generators, and a solar-powered stage.

Why It Matters: Preventing Marine Debris

Marine debris is a serious threat to Louisiana’s environment. NOAA reports that roughly 80% of marine debris originates on land via litter and mismanaged landfill waste. By reducing landfill contributions and promoting responsible behavior, Geauxing Green helps stop debris before it reaches our rivers and the Gulf—protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal communities.

Donations Make It Possible

This incredible impact - on our community, our culture, and our environment - is only possible with support from people like YOU! If you value accessible arts programming and the spirit of New Orleans, please make a donation to French Quarter Festivals, Inc. today.

About French Quarter Festivals, Inc.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to promote the Vieux Carré and the City of New Orleans through high-quality special events and activities that showcase the culture and heritage of this unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. FQFI produces French Quarter Festival, Satchmo SummerFest, and other cultural programming.