Mardi Gras
Laissez les bons temps rouler (let the good times roll)! Every year in February or March (check dates), New Orleans indulges in Fat Tuesday, a rowdy celebration with parades, costumes, masks and huge crowds.
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Each year on the last weekend of April and first weekend of May, "Jazz Fest" celebrates the rich musical culture of New Orleans and Louisiana. Various musical genres besides jazz are represented, with hundreds of live performances at the Fair Grounds Race Course and at venues throughout the city. Plenty of local food and craft vendors are also part of the fun.
French Quarter History Talk
From 6/19/2024 - 9/28/2026
Uncover New Orleans' layered cultural history through insightful talks by Park Rangers from renowned National Historical Parks. These enlightening narrations decode the city's vibrant charm, serving as a journey rather than entity explorations.
Rodrigue: Before the Blue Dog
From 11/23/2024 - 9/28/2025
Guests can deeply examine the work of George Rodrigue, prior to his famous Blue Dog era, immersing themselves into his captivating portrayals of Cajun culture and landscapes. The event appreciates the artist's efforts towards the Cajun Revival, offering an emotionally-charged journey of increased understanding for Acadian culture.
Higher Heights Reggae and R&B
From 1/3/2025 - 12/26/2025
Talented artists promise a soulful journey through performances immersed in Reggae and R&B music at the Higher Heights event. The night bubbles with the magic of live music, pledging a groovy atmosphere brimming with good vibes and unforgettable memories.
Keith Duncan: Battle of the Bands
From 2/15/2025 - 8/10/2025
Immerse yourself in Keith Duncan's newest exhibit, 'Battle of the Bands', highlighting the rhythmic cadence of HBCUs marching bands through striking, large-scale fabric paintings. This visual tribute not only celebrates music but also invites a dialogue on discipline, athletics, unity, black culture, joy, and the rich narratives embedded in the South's HBCUs band tradition and their cultural importance to contemporary American history.
Fall of Saigon with Hoa Tay (Flower Hands)
From 3/15/2025 - 9/21/2025
Hoa Tay (Flower Hands) pays tribute to 50 years since the Fall of Saigon with creations by both promising and recognized Vietnamese-American artists from the American South. Through a wide range of styles and mediums, the event weaves critical insights into horror, resistance, and cultural shaping against a backdrop of intricate histories, revealing deep emotional experiences of the Vietnamese Diaspora.
Comedy Beast Stand-Up Showcase
From 4/29/2025 - 10/21/2025
This weekly stand-up show boasts a lineup of hilarious comics, guaranteed to supply a steady stream of laughter. Attendees can couple their belly laughs with a selection of excellent drinks.
Art Walk on Magazine Street
From 1/4/2025 - 11/1/2025
First Saturdays are making their joyous return, keeping alive a beloved New Orleans tradition for Magazine Street's art galleries. Attendees can look forward to artist openings, servings of refreshments, and a lively atmosphere, all courtesy of a collaboration with The Scout Guide New Orleans.
Essence Festival of Culture
From 7/3/2025 - 7/6/2025
The Essence Festival of Culture in Louisiana is an annual celebration that honors African American music, culture, and empowerment. Held in New Orleans, this iconic festival features a star-studded lineup of musical performances, powerful speakers, and cultural events that highlight the best of Black culture.
Rock the Boat: All-White Boat Ride Party
On 7/3/2025
With every ticket sold out year after year, the event attracts vibrant party-goers ready to rock the boat at New Orleans' popular annual All-White Boat Ride Party. Participants experience an unprecedented thrill, engrossing themselves in non-stop entertainment on three party levels while cruising down the scenic, historical Mississippi River onto the gateway of the annual Essence Fest Weekend.
Essence Film Festival
From 7/4/2025 - 7/6/2025
The Essence Film Festival, held annually in New Orleans, celebrates the diverse voices and storytelling of Black filmmakers from around the world. With anticipated attendance of over 10,000 film enthusiasts, the event features screenings of groundbreaking films, panel discussions with industry experts, and exclusive networking opportunities. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of black cinema at the Essence Film Festival.
Go 4th on the River
On 7/4/2025
Participate in the patriotism with fireworks bursting in the air on the New Orleans Riverfront at Go 4th on the River in New Orleans, Louisiana, where the Dueling Barges Fireworks Extravaganza has been wowing crowds for more than 30 years. If your heart beats red, white, and blue like the nautical water shows leading up to the main event, roll down the river to the Crescent City for this all-American display and free concerts of live music.
The Vibe Day Party
On 7/4/2025
Attendees of the Vibe Day Party Essence can anticipate an ambiance brimming with electrifying energy and an exciting atmosphere. The event features lively socializing and entertainment, including the trendiest musical performances, endless dance aspects, and signature cocktail experiences, making for a truly vibrant throwdown.
Nya Nya Experience Fashion Show
On 7/5/2025
The Nya Nya Experience Fashion Show, set to take place at the Essence Music Festival, promises an elevated evening of en vogue couture and impressive designs. Amidst showcasing world-class fashion, this incredible fashion show pledges steadfast support to the revered Our Purple Hearts Foundation.
The Last Damn Day Party
On 7/7/2025
Attendees can expect a thrilling 4th of July Festival Weekend championed by none other than Darron Wheeler Entertainment, renowned for creating engagement on an elite level. It promises unique entertainment that effortlessly combines a festival-inspired atmosphere with exclusive New Orleans charm.
Laughs and Drafts Comedy Showcase
On 7/9/2025
Participants are assured an evening filled with hysterical laughs at the Stand Up Comedy event. The intimate venue promises undeniable humor by talented comedians, along with local craft beers to enjoy in a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
New Orleans Wine and Food Experience
From 7/11/2025 - 7/15/2025
The New Orleans Wine and Food Experience is a culinary delight, blending world-class wines with the city’s iconic cuisine. With tastings, cooking demos, and exclusive dinners, it’s a must for food and wine enthusiasts.
Wednesday Night 9 Hole Scramble
From 6/4/2025 - 10/29/2025
Every Wednesday night, attendees have the chance to participate in a lively 9-hole scramble game. It's always a fun-filled evening that's sure to test your golf skills.
Summer Saber Fridays
From 7/11/2025 - 8/29/2025
Every Friday afternoon, individuals can master the stylish art of sabrage at the Summer Saber Fridays event. Attendees are provided a premium bottle of Bisol 'Crede' Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore 2022 for the sabrage lesson, with the costs fully inclusive of tax and gratuity, while additional attendees have the option to stand by and watch all the fun excitement burg free.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire
From 7/12/2025 - 7/13/2025
At Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire, fans will witness lifelike depictions of their favorite monster trucks, including Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, among others, along with the new addition, Skelesaurus. Besides this, there will be a special feature of a transforming robot and thrilling performances by the Freestyle Motocross Team, with especially affordable pricing for children, making the event suitable for families.
Bowling Tournament Fundraiser
From 7/12/2025 - 7/16/2025
This action-packed Annual Bowling Tournament features skillful bowlers showcasing their technique and precision. Not only does it create a jovial environment teeming with an intense competitive vibe, but it also allows participants to enjoy an entertaining evening filled with friendship, cheering squads, energy-laden snacks and beverages, thrills, and endless rolling fun under the brightly lit lanes.
San Fermin in Nueva Orleans: 19th Annual Celebration
From 7/11/2025 - 7/12/2025
Dashed with a fresh volley of excitement, the 19th Edition of the Running of the Bulls beckons attendees with a tantalizing schedule encompassing Txupinazo, Running of the Bulls, and El Pobre de Mi activities. While anticipating thrilling updates across various social media platforms, eagerly register to partake in this annual escapade held at a renowned historical landmark once known as New Orleans City Hall.
New Orleans Oddities and Curiosities Expo
From 7/19/2025 - 7/20/2025
The Oddities and Curiosities Expo is the ultimate emporium for the eccentric, offering a distinctive rendezvous for vendors and visitors appreciating the weirder things life has to offer. Among its numerous features are peculiarities encompassing taxidermy, preserved specimens, original artwork, horror-inspired pieces, antiques, handcrafted oddities, bizarre medical devices, unusual clothing, odd jewelry, and a variety of skulls, bones, and funeral collectibles, guaranteeing there's something for every fan of the strange.
A Taste of Africa Fest
On 7/19/2025
WWOZ's guide intends to inspire the music lover in you by featuring a myriad of live local music performances from around New Orleans. From jazz to blues, there's sure to be something to tickle every auditory fancy.
Tales of the Cocktail
From 7/20/2025 - 7/25/2025
Held in New Orleans, the Tales of the Cocktail festival is a premier gathering for cocktail enthusiasts and industry professionals. Offering tastings, workshops, and seminars, it’s a spirited celebration of mixology, innovation, and the art of the drink.
Latin Night with DJ Nayo
On 7/22/2025
Dance lovers will revel in Latin Night, a thrilling evening showcasing rhythmic beats spun masterfully by DJ Nayo. Not only will it feature salsa, merengue, and more, but everyoneregardless of experience levels, is welcome to hit the dance floor.
Summer Sommelier Cellar Tours
From 7/26/2025 - 8/23/2025
For wine connoisseurs and epicureans alike, an intimate cellar tour awaits at this event, promising the exploration of an impressive range of 1400 wine selections designed to exquisitely pair with rich Creole cuisine. Thanks to Brennan's New Advanced Sommelier and Wine Director, Sam Bortugno, and Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group's Beverage Director, Braithe Gill, attendees can uncover the depth and breadth of a two-story collection, from Burgundian fine wines to an extensive assortment of Champagne and sparkling wines.
Weird Al Yankovic
On 7/29/2025
Weird Al Yankovic is an icon of comedic music, known for his parodies of popular songs and his signature accordion playing. He's made audiences laugh for over 40 years, and his creativity and wit remain as strong as ever.
