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Although its considerably warmer in New Orleans, festival season is still in overdrive. During the month of June, there are several festivals that will take place throughout the city. And all of these festivals have one thing in common: They bring people together under a common cause to celebrate amazing things about New Orleans.
In honor of New Orleans festivals, here is a roundup of some of the most anticipated events taking place in June 2017.
1. New Orleans Pride - Free
Named one of the fastest growing Pride celebrations, the New Orleans Pride festivities take place throughout the city between June 9 to 11. Started in 2011, the New Orleans Pride Festival holds a series of special events that promotes unity a between different people.
The festivities include a dance party on June 9. On June 10, Pridefest, which showcases several local performances and highlights the celebrity Grand Marshal, will take place at 940 Elysian Fields between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Pridefest is free and open to the public.
Following Pridefest, the New Orleans Pride Parade will fill the streets of the French Quarter. There will be several marching groups, floats, and art displays. On Sunday, June 11, New Orleans Pride will host its Family Equality Day at the Longue Vue House & Gardens that will have children activities, food and local vendors. Both events are free and open to the public.
2. French Market Creole Tomato Festival - Free
On June 10 and 11, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m, the 31st annual Creole Tomato Festival will take place at the French Market. If you love tomatoes, or just have reverence from the Louisiana vegetable (or fruit?), several chefs and vendors will offer unique, tomato- and creole-inspired cuisines.
The festival will have two music stages throughout the French Quarter. Though, its been said that the organizers will add a third Crescent City Park stage. To see the line up of the planned musical performances, check out the French Market’s official website.
The event is free and is open to the public.
3. NOLA Caribbean Festival - $$$
Towards the end of June, Organizers will host the 4th annual NOLA Caribbean Festival on June 24 and 25 , at 1201 S. Rampart Street. Highlighting Caribbean culture, the annual festival will feature live and local music, local Caribbean food and art vendors, and several activities. If the kids are tagging along, there will be a dedicated kids corner, complete with a bounce house, art & crafts, and music learning stations.
For more information on tickets, visit the official NOLA Caribbean Festival website.
4. Essence Festival - Free and $$$
On June 30, and spreading into early July, New Orleans Essence Festival will be a huge draw in the French Quarter. Approaching its 23rd year, the annual festival has several components, including a free convention and a paid admission concert. The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center holds the free convention that showcases several speakers, artists, and vendors. The free convention takes place during daylight hours of June 30 and July 1 and 2.
Several well-known artists will perform at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome starting after sunset. For more information on tickets for the annual concert, visit Essence official website.