New Orleans is, if anything, a city of festivals. This makes it not only a fun place to live but also offers visitors unparalleled access to the essence of the city. Participating in the parades, concerts, and unique local add-ons known as lagniappe provides insights into what makes New Orleans tick. Here are some of the most notable festivals in the city.
Fast Times on Fat Tuesday
Late spring and early summer offer the most pleasant weather, marking prime festival season in New Orleans. Among these, Mardi Gras is celebrated annually in February or March, the day before Ash Wednesday. It is the quintessential New Orleans festival, encapsulating the city’s image in a way that transcends mere description. The festival’s complicated history and cultural practices undeniably shape the identity of New Orleans.
Jazz is Only the Beginning
Close behind Mardi Gras in significance is one of the world’s premier music festivals: Jazz Fest. Since its inception in 1970, where it started with 350 attendees, Jazz Fest now attracts hundreds of thousands of concert-goers, featuring internationally renowned artists like Chaka Khan, Rolling Stones, Katy Perry, and Chris Stapleton, in addition to the remarkable local talent that distinguishes this musically rich city. Jazz Fest takes place over two weeks in late April and early May, with culinary offerings from some of the best restaurants in the area. For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, the Chaz Fest offers an intimate occasion with local artists who may not make it to the larger festivals.
A Wrought-Iron Celebration
The French Quarter Festival, held in April, presents a delightful assortment of local music and cuisine, emphasizing the best of the Quarter. This is an ideal time to wander the narrow streets, as many private residences graciously open their exquisite courtyard gardens to visitors. St. Patrick’s Day is fervently celebrated here; the largest festivities occur at Irish American bars such as Molly’s and Parasol’s. On March 19, the vibrant Indian Sunday showcases the legendary tribes in their full regalia. For food enthusiasts, the Wine & Food Experience held in May is a must-visit, along with the Louisiana Crawfish Festival occurring in late March or early April.
Even More New Orleans Festivals
The Essence Music Festival in July features some of the finest R&B and hip-hop talent in the nation. Additionally, Independence Day is celebrated with grand fireworks displays along the Mississippi River. On August 4, Louis Armstrong’s birthday is commemorated with jazz and local delicacies at Satchmo SummerFest. The Southern Decadence Party on Labor Day weekend, also known as “Gay Mardi Gras,” ensures the partying continues late into the night. Halloween transforms the city into a festive wonderland, while Christmas brings numerous lively events along the waterfront, including the dazzling Celebration in the Oaks, which adorns City Park with colorful lights.
This article was first published in February 2011 and updated in July 2019.
