When the Creole tomatoes ripen under the Louisiana sun, locals know it’s time to head to the French Market Creole Tomato Festival—one of the tastiest food festivals in New Orleans. This lively annual event, typically held in June, is a delicious kickoff to summer, honoring one of the region’s most prized ingredients: the juicy, flavorful Creole tomato.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime NOLA festival-goer, this event blends the best of New Orleans festivals—great food, vibrant music, and unbeatable local flair.
What is the Creole Tomato Festival?
The Creole Tomato Festival has been a beloved summer tradition in the French Quarter since 1986. Hosted in the historic French Market, the oldest public market in the United States, this festival pays tribute to Louisiana’s unique variety of tomato. Creole tomatoes are known for their bright red skin, rich flavor, and juicy interior—ideal for po’boys, salads, sauces, and more.
When is the Creole Tomato Festival?
The French Market Creole Tomato Festival 2025 is expected to take place June 7–8, 2025, in the historic French Market District. This weekend-long event usually runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day and is free to attend.
What to Expect at the Festival
🍅 Creole Tomatoes, Of Course
Local farmers bring the freshest Creole tomatoes straight from their fields. You can buy them by the basket or taste them in dozens of creative dishes from local vendors.
🎶 Live Music & Entertainment
Like all festivals in New Orleans, the Creole Tomato Festival serves up nonstop live music. Expect jazz, funk, and brass bands filling the French Market district with that distinct New Orleans music festival energy.
🧑🍳 Chef Demonstrations
Watch local chefs show off how to cook with Creole tomatoes—from classic Creole dishes to modern takes. These demos are a must-see for any food lover.
🎨 Family-Friendly Fun
Kids can enjoy tomato-themed crafts, face painting, and games, making it one of the more family-friendly festivals New Orleans offers.
Admission & Location
The Creole Tomato Festival is free to attend and takes place throughout the French Market District—stretching from Café du Monde to the edge of the French Quarter. With open-air markets, shaded seating, and food stalls everywhere, it’s a great place to stroll, snack, and soak up the atmosphere.
Parking for the Creole Tomato Festival
Parking in the French Quarter can be a challenge during big New Orleans festivals, especially ones as popular as the Creole Tomato Festival. Limited street parking, closed roads, and inflated garage prices make it difficult to find convenient spots.
That’s where New Orleans Parking comes in.
We offer affordable, secure, and easy-access NOLA parking near all the action—including locations just minutes from the French Quarter, downtown, the Convention Center, and the cruise terminal.
Reserve Your Parking Spot in Advance
Skip the stress of circling for a space. With New Orleans Parking, you can reserve a guaranteed parking spot online, ahead of time. Whether you’re planning to attend just for the day or pairing your festival visit with a cruise or weekend stay, we’ve got the perfect location for you.
Let’s Recap
If you love food, music, and culture, the French Market Creole Tomato Festival is a must-attend. It’s one of the standout food festivals New Orleans offers—combining the city’s culinary heritage with festive summer vibes. Whether you’re indulging in a fried green tomato po’boy or dancing to live brass music, this event promises a full NOLA experience.
Plan ahead and park smart.
Reserve your spot with New Orleans Parking today for affordable, secure parking across downtown, near the Convention Center, and perfect for festival access.
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