The French Quarter Fest Gala serves as a fundraiser for the organization behind the beloved event, French Quarter Festivals, Inc. This year, the gala will feature an evening with Nicholas Payton at the Fillmore on Friday, March 22. All gala guests can expect a full reception-style dinner, open bar, silent auction, and live entertainment throughout the night.

In addition to raising money, the gala provides fans with a direct way to support the organization. Celebrating its 36th year, the gala will feature a breathtaking performance by trumpeter Nicholas Payton. This Grammy-winning artist has performed since the age of 10 and is widely considered one of the greatest performers of his time. Payton is known for his fusion of traditional New Orleans with modern jazz, hip-hop, and spoken-word in his latest work. A New Orleans tribe called Gumbolia will feature Mardi Gras Indian drumming at the event, as well.

This year’s honorary co-chairs are Mayor LaToya Cantrell, Chevron’s Gulf of Mexico Vice President Mark Hatfield, and Irma Thomas. This classy event will host all lovers of music, food, cocktails, and New Orleans. Attendees are expected to dress in cocktail attire. This is one night New Orleans residents won’t want to miss!

Three ticket-tiers are available for purchase for this year’s event, some of which include special entertainment from Payton as well as The Nayo Jones Experience. For more information, click here. To see the music lineup for the 2019 French Quarter Fest, click here!