Beads. Beads cover New Orleans. From the live oak trees of St. Charles, where beads seem to grow like so much spanish moss, to the stoops of the Bywater, where hitch knots of beads have hung for so long that they're more landscape than decoration. From Chalmette to Metairie, the ubiquity of Mardi Gras beads is undeniable. They are a reminder of celebrations past and of those to come. And, whether it's Halloween, or Satchmo SummerFest, Mardi Gras or St Patrick's Day, Jazz Fest or just Friday – celebrations in New Orleans continue like beads on a string.

We invite you to join us April 7th-10th for the 28th annual French Quarter Fest, a weekend of music, food and special events to celebrate the history and culture of the French Quarter. There will be 17 outdoor stages showcasing multiple genres of music including gospel, jazz, funk, classical, cajun and zydeco, brass bands and much more.

Don't miss Louisiana's largest free music festival – visit fqfi.org for details.