French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026

Date
April 18, 2026
Location
New Orleans, LA
Venue
Esplanade Ave. & Decatur St.
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$40.00 – $65.00
Events
5K
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The French Quarter Festival 5K is a 5K running race held in New Orleans, Louisiana on April 18, 2026. The race starts at 8:00 AM from Esplanade Avenue and Decatur Street in the heart of the French Quarter. Entry fees range from $40 to $65. This spring race offers runners a chance to compete in one of New Orleans' most historic and vibrant neighborhoods. If you're traveling to the area for the event, you'll want accommodation within easy reach of the start location for an early morning departure. The French Quarter provides numerous lodging options ranging from budget-friendly to upscale, many within walking distance of the race venue.

From the Race Organizer
The 2026 French Quarter Festival 5K Be a part of history at the starting line! On Saturday, April 18, 2026, French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) proudly presents the French Quarter Festival 5K. Starting at 8:00 AM, this landmark event celebrates the world-famous culture and streets in a competitive 5K run. Race Day Schedule: 7:00 AM - Pre-race packet pickup 8:00 AM - 5K Start 9:30 AM - Award Ceremony (subject to change) Since 1984, FQFI has curated the "city's favorite festival," showcasing the soul of New Orleans through music and cuisine. As we re-introduce this 5k race (last seen in 2013), we invite you to be among the thousands of runners winding through the historic Vieux Carré. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your participation in this inaugural year helps ensure that the music, food, and traditions of New Orleans remain vibrant and free for generations to come.

Hotels Near This Race

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French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for April 18.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to New Orleans, LA. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026?

French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026 takes place on April 18, 2026. The race is held in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Where is French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026 held?

French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026 is held at Esplanade Ave. & Decatur St. in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Where can I find hotels near French Quarter Festival 5K – New Orleans, LA 2026?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in New Orleans. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.