On Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 11 am to 9 pm, Queen Street in downtown Niagara Falls will come alive with the sights and sounds of the Big Easy 2nd Line Celebration, a high-energy kickoff to the Niagara Jazz Festival’s summer season. Inspired by the vibrant second line traditions of New Orleans, this free, family friendly event invites visitors to dance through the streets alongside live brass bands, and enjoy dynamic performances by Turbo Street Funk and the Dragon Ritual Drummers.

Festivalgoers can savour Cajun and Creole cuisine, sip on signature Crescent City cocktails, and soak in a full day of music, movement, and community celebration. Guests are encouraged to dress the part with feathers, beads, masks, and festive flair, adding to the joyful, parade-style atmosphere.

The celebration also includes family-friendly activities, interactive ticketed workshops, arts and crafts, and food and cocktail demos throughout the day. Local businesses such as Cat and Monkey, AWA (African Women Acting), No Tell Cocktail and Speakeasy, Steve Wilson Studio, and more will join the revelry with in-store promotions, themed décor, and New Orleans-inspired experiences.

This vibrant day is made possible in partnership with the Niagara Falls Cultural Development Fund, City of Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls Innovation Hub, Niagara Falls University, Taps Brewhouse, and the Downtown Niagara Falls Queen Street merchants.

Base Camp @ Niagara Falls Innovation Hub - 4551 Zimmerman Ave, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2P2

Family Zone @ AWA - 4337 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2K9

Opening Remarks @ University of Niagara Falls Canada - 4342 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 7J7

Poppet Doll Making Workshop @ Cat & Monkey - 4548 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L5

Mardi Gras Cocktail Demo @ No Tell Cocktail Speakeasy - No Tell Cocktail and Speakeasy

Paint & Sip w/ Steve Wilson Studio - 4548 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L5

Concert @ Taps Brewhouse - 4680 Queen St, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 2L8

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