French Market facts for kids
The French Market (French: Marché français) is a famous market and a group of buildings that stretch for six blocks in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It started as a Native American trading post even before Europeans arrived, making it the oldest market of its kind in the United States. The market began where the well-known Café du Monde is today and has been rebuilt and updated many times over the years.
This historic market is also part of the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail, which celebrates important places in African American history.
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What Can You Find at the Market?
For many years, individual sellers at the French Market offered all sorts of fresh foods, including raw seafood. Today, the market is a vibrant place with lots to explore.
Delicious Food and Drinks
You can find many cafés and bars here. They serve tasty New Orleans specialties like crawfish and other seafood. You can also try delicious Cajun and Creole dishes, yummy desserts, fresh fruits, and vegetables. It's a great place to try local flavors!
Fun Events and Activities
The French Market is also famous for hosting exciting yearly events. These include the French Quarter Festival, which is a big music and food celebration, and the French Market Creole Tomato Festival, which celebrates a special kind of tomato grown in the area.
The flea market part of the French Market is especially busy on weekends. You can often enjoy free music performances there too! The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park has its office and visitor center right in the French Market, where you can learn about the history of jazz music.
A Look Back: History of the Market
A part of this area has been used as a market since 1791, during the time when Louisiana was a colony. However, the oldest buildings that are still standing today were built around 1813.
Changes and Updates Over Time
The market has gone through many changes. Big updates were made in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration, a government program that created jobs during a tough economic time.
Rebuilding and improvements have continued into the 21st century. Many areas that used to be open-air stalls with just a roof now have shops and restaurants with walls and doors. These businesses mostly serve the many tourists who visit New Orleans.
How the Market Got Its Name
The market was first called "the Meat Shops" or "Meat Market." It was the only place in the French Quarter where you could buy meat. Later, when meat was sold in other places too, the market's name changed to the "French Market."
Where Is the French Market?
The French Market is located right next to the Mississippi River in the part of the French Quarter that is "downriver" from Jackson Square. It starts at the Café du Monde on one end and stretches all the way to the flea market stalls, which are across from the historic New Orleans Mint building.
Images for kids
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The French Market's Farmers Market & Flea Market stall
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A section of the French Market about 1940
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The French Market, 1910
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Cafe Du Monde
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Street performers
