Lafayette Square

Located at the corner of Poydras Street and St. Charles Avenue, Lafayette Square was originally called Place Gravier, but was renamed after New Orleans was visited by Marquis de Lafayette, a French aristocrat and close friend of Goerge Washington. He had fought on the American side during the Revolutionary War. More importantly, the place, with its greenery and statues, has been the location for inaugurations and other events, including visits by jazz bands and concerts. Significantly, it is the summer venue for Wednesday at the Square, a series of free evening concerts and acts by some of the biggest names in their respective fields. In addition, the fall blues music festival is also held here.