Travel Guide Intro

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Title

Your Complete Guide to New Orleans Hotels & Activities

Description

New Orleans, famously dubbed "The Big Easy," is a town known for its fantastic live music scene, mouthwatering and award-winning bars and restaurants, museums, walkability, and spirited celebrations. From the energetic vibes of Bourbon Street to the calming beauty of the more than 300-year-old city’s many parks and green spaces, NOLA offers a diverse array of experiences for every traveler—not to mention its rich melting pot of cultures (from French and African to American, Spanish, Haitian, and more), making this a truly magical city filled with beautiful people, customs, and experiences.

Plan ahead and visit during Mardi Gras, for a fun-filled bash in the streets unlike any other.
Pack comfortable shoes and a novelty item—a hat, feather boa, or another creative accessory you wouldn’t mind swapping with new friends.
New Orleans is a food city, through and through, so make reservations for must-visit bars and restaurants, to ensure availability during your trip.

Travel Tips

New Orleans can be hot and humid, especially in the summer. Pack lightweight clothing and stay hydrated. Embrace the local culture, which is known for its hospitality and love for music, food, and festivities. While the city is generally safe for tourists, be cautious in crowded areas and stick to well-lit streets, especially at night. And always explore more! Venture beyond the French Quarter to experience neighborhoods like the Garden District, Marigny, and Bywater for a more authentic experience

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Upcoming Events in New Orleans

Miguel Discart & Kiri Karma

Bayou Classic Parade

The Bayou Classic Parade is a New Orleans staple. It features floats, marching bands, and motorcades, among other things. It's a cultural symphony, where the spirit of rivalry transforms into a harmonious celebration of heritage, unity, and the rich tapestry of Bayou Classic tradition.

Start date: November 28, 2024
End date: November 28, 2024

Event website

Brian McGowan

Krewe of Jingle Parade

Krewe of Jingle Parade is a festive spectacle in the heart of New Orleans, where holiday magic meets Mardi Gras flair. Brass bands, whimsical floats, and dazzling lights bring joy to the streets. It's a jingling celebration, blending the spirit of the season with the lively essence of NOLA.

Start date: December 7, 2024
End date: December 7, 2024

Event website

SocialButterflyMMG

Teaser Fest

Teaser Fest is a tantalizing celebration of burlesque and variety arts. This event showcases the art of the tease through captivating performances, glamorous costumes, and a playful atmosphere. From burlesque dancers to vaudeville acts, the event creates an entertaining and immersive experience.

Start date: January 18, 2025
End date: January 21, 2025

Event website

beebutter

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana, is an iconic annual celebration known for its vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and lively street parties. Rooted in French Catholic tradition, Mardi Gras, or "Fat Tuesday," is the culmination of Carnival season.

Start date: February 13, 2025
End date: February 13, 2025

Event website

amanderson2

Lundi Gras Festival

Lundi Gras, or "Fat Monday," is the day before Mardi Gras. This old tradition started by King Rex in the 19th Century has been revived over the past decade. The party includes music, food and the Zulu king and queen arriving by boat. This event is a bit more tame than Mardi Gras.

Start date: March 3, 2025
End date: March 3, 2025

Event website

PalFest

Tennessee Williams New Orleans Literary Festival

This festival recognizes Williams' deep connection with New Orleans and his influence on its literary community while promoting the city's rich cultural diversity. Activities include live theater panel discussions, walking tours, one-act plays, competitions, master classes, and poetry readings.

Start date: March 26, 2025
End date: March 30, 2025

Event website

Numinosity by Gary J Wood

French Quarter Festival

This free four-day festival held every April is a celebration of French Quarter life. The list of activities is endless: numerous outdoor concerts, patio tours, a parade, a battle of jazz bands, bartender competitions, art shows, children's activities, talent competitions, and more.

Start date: April 10, 2025
End date: April 13, 2025

Event website

dougandme

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

1970 marked the first year of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, previously known simply as the Louisiana Heritage Fair. New Orleans celebrates with outrageous artist lineups, artisanal crafts, authentic local food, and an amazing time like no other.

Start date: April 24, 2025
End date: May 4, 2025

Event website

Norge8

Essence Festival of Culture

Essence Magazine presents a music festival filled with seminars by celebrities and social figures, as well as heart-stopping performances by some of today's most electrifying performing artists. In celebration of African American culture and music, countless fans flock from around the country.

Start date: July 4, 2025
End date: July 7, 2025

Event website

dansilvers

Tales of the Cocktail

Come summer and the city of New Orleans plays host to the different flavors of cocktails and some great food to go with it. This five-day event is kept alive with music, parties, book signings, demos and seminars. So stop by the various venues to sample the spirit of the city.