NEW ORLEANS – The French Market District is inviting New Orleans to celebrate Independence Day at Crescent Park, on Monday, July 4, 2016, with the extended hours of 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for fireworks viewing on the River.
There will be a DJ dance party, food trucks and adult and family friendly beverages for purchase on Mandeville Wharf. Piety Wharf will be open for viewing as well with its own drink station.
Admission is free, but donations will be accepted to support Crescent Park, which receives limited public funding for its operations.
No outside food, beverages or coolers will be allowed.
Chairs are welcome.
There will be security checkpoints at all three entrances to the park: Bartholomew Street, Piety Street and Mandeville Street.
Parking in Crescent Park lots will be $15 a car.
View parking information and maps here
For more information about Go 4th On The River click here.
After the Fourth of July, The French Market will host several Bastille Day events in partnership with Bastille Day Nola.
• Thursday, July 14, 10:00 a.m. – Council of French Societies Wreath Laying Ceremony at New Place de France, French Market District, at 1000 Decatur Street at St. Phillip Street.
The Joan of Arc statue is the site of this annual wreath laying ceremony, where local dignitaries gather to honor our French heritage. The event is open to the public and complimentary champagne and cupcakes will be offered after speeches in French and English and the public singing of the French National Anthem, “La Marseillaise.”
• Sunday, July 17, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. – French Market Bartender and Waiters Race.
This unique French tradition started in the early 20th century in Paris, and is now held around the world annually in honor of France’s national holiday, Bastille Day, and in honor of hospitality industries everywhere. The race challenges local hospitality bar and wait staff to strut their stuff in a speed walking race while carrying food and beverages. This year’s race will be shorter and even faster, as it returns to its “original” 2011 spot between the Old U.S. Mint and The French Market. Come cheer on your favorite bartender or waiter—and encourage them to sign up to win cash and gift certificate prizes.
Registration is free.
Entertainment begins on the Farmers Market stage at 3:00 p.m. with Harmonouche, followed by a performance by Les ReBELLES Nola.
The race begins at 4:00 p.m. sharp with awards at 4:45 p.m.
