We never need an excuse to throw a good party. From incredible art displays to concerts and parades, check out the must-experience NOLA events below.
White Linen Night
Each year on the first Saturday of August, White Linen Night shuts down the 300-700 blocks of Julia Street and offers folks the chance to enjoy creativity, culture, and community in true New Orleans Art District block party style. Everyone don’s white linen (to stay cool and to look cool) while galleries open their doors up and offer visitors the chance to wander through amazing selections of local art. All free of charge.
Jazz Fest
Dive into a one-of-a-kind musical gathering that combines the fervor of a gospel hymn with the joy of a jazz parade. Here, you’ll find some of the most iconic artists from New Orleans and around the world during this multi-day festival.
Mardi Gras
As one of the city’s most famed celebrations, Mardi Gras (which culminates on Fat Tuesday) dates back thousands of years and is still one of the most magical time to experience New Orleans. Also known as Carnival or Carnaval, it continues to be an epic convergence of incredible parades, parties and celebrations over the course of several weeks. From the all-women's Krewe of Muses to the giggly Krewe of Forty Funny Fellows, fête-ing to your hearts content is as easy as a biting into a piece of King Cake.
French Quarter Fest
The French Quarter Festival was started back in 1984 as a way to bring folks back to the revitalized neighborhood and it quickly became the largest showcase of Louisiana music in the world. Over 20 stages are erected throughout the area, each celebrating different genres of locally inspired music.
Essence Festival
Held every Fourth of July weekend, Essence Fest is an annual music and cultural festival celebrating African-American and Black music, art and culture. Along with music-filled days of hip-hop, R&B and other genres from a star-filled roster of local and bigger acts, Essence Fest is also a place to gather, learn and grow, offering educational talks from influential leaders and luminaries across a variety of industries and fields, as well as seminars and workshops. From diverse artwork to lively performances, Essence Fest is a truly New Orleans experience of joyful celebration and community connection.
