Jackson Square was the Place d'Armes by the French and Plaza de Armas by the Spanish. In this area the militia drilled and the citizens met. The Place d'Armes, site in 1803 of the Louisiana Purchase ceremony, was renamed Jackson Square in the 1850's in honor of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans in the War of 1812 and later President of the United States.
Artists set up shop, using the iron fence as a display for their works. Musicians, dancers, jugglers, mimes and clowns add to the festive atmosphere.