Freret Street Festival

Billed as the kickoff to the festival season, this Uptown neighborhood festival is the biggest block party you've ever been to. More than two hundred local vendors, live music on three stages, a kids' activity area, and festival food are predictable fare, but it's the street-party vibe that gives the festival its edge. Free from 11 am–6 pm. neworleans.com/event/freret-street-festival/3266.