Since our 2022 acquisition of Riverwalk Outlets in New Orleans, Louisiana, we’ve driven thousands of visitors to the property and surrounding area by hosting community-centric events, showcasing local vendors and gaining new tenants. Although it’s only Q2, Riverwalk Outlets has buzzed with activity this year, and we’re only getting started. Take a look at Riverwalk’s recent developments and what else is in store for 2024.
Festivals Galore in Downtown New Orleans
This year, festivals have drawn thousands of tourists and locals alike to Spanish Plaza and Riverwalk Outlets. In February, Riverwalk hosted its 38th Annual Lundi Gras Celebration on Spanish Plaza, complete with award-winning live music, local food vendors, the arrival of Rex and Zulu, and a fireworks show along the Mississippi River. Riverwalk Outlets also moved the stage to the lower wharf to increase capacity for spectators and vendors. Although the event is free for attendees, they added a VIP experience this year, complete with exclusive front-row access to all performances, a VIP tent and complimentary food and beverages. Our own Andy Weiner attended, even participating in the Krewe of Orpheus parade that evening!
In April, Riverwalk Outlets served as a venue for the French Quarter Festival with the Jack Daniel’s stage on Spanish Plaza. For over 40 years, the French Quarter Festival has provided New Orleanians and visitors with the best of the New Orleans music scene, and this year was no exception. The Downtown Development District estimated more than 350,000 visitors came to the city for the 2023 festival, and this year’s forecast numbers were even higher. With special performances from Partners-N-Crime, Brass-A-Holics with Flagboy G, Teedra Moses and more, festivalgoers enjoyed food from Addis NOLA, Ajun Cajun, Etalian Happy Ice and the Riverwalk Outlets food court.
Riverwalk Outlets’ Food Court: 92% Occupancy Rate
Speaking of the food court, it’s almost full! In Q1, Riverwalk Outlets welcomed local restaurants Mr. Shrimp and Mochi XO, providing mallgoers with an even more diverse culinary experience. Whether a customer is craving jambalaya pasta or Japanese donuts, Riverwalk Outlets proudly offers both. Rock N’ Roll Sushi reopened under new management, and Café Du Monde, Raising Cane’s and other popular eateries are thriving.
New National Tenants in the Works
We’re not stopping at the food court, either. As we continue to expand and enrich the Riverwalk Outlets experience for both locals and tourists, RockStep is in the process of acquiring several new national tenants. From high-end fashion to creating engaging consumer experiences, these brands will further solidify Riverwalk Outlets’ status as a premier destination in downtown New Orleans.
Upcoming Events
Riverwalk Outlets is proudly hosting its annual Summer Market event in early July on Spanish Plaza. A pop-up market showcasing a curated selection of local vendors, the Summer Market allows New Orleans residents to support their community and for visitors to get a taste of what the city of New Orleans is all about. On September 15th, New Orleans Fashion Week will host their kickoff event on Spanish Plaza, starting a week that showcases hundreds of local designers, models, photographers and other creatives each year. New Orleans Fashion Week is also partnering with Riverwalk Outlets to hold an open casting call on June 8th for current and aspiring models.
At RockStep Capital, improving the communities we invest in is a top priority. As we reflect on the events and celebrations this year has held for Riverwalk Outlets, we renew our commitment to creating lasting value and fostering a vibrant atmosphere for New Orleanians and visitors alike.