Top New Orleans Festivals and Events in New Orleans (2025)

Are you planning a trip to New Orleans? You’re in for a treat! This city is known for its vibrant culture and fun events. There’s always something happening here. Let’s dive into the world of New Orleans events!

The Heart of New Orleans Events: Mardi Gras

No talk of New Orleans events is complete without mentioning Mardi Gras. It’s the king of all New Orleans celebrations. This event transforms the city into a sea of colors and costumes. Parades, music, and dancing fill the streets. It’s a must-see for everyone!

 

Jazz & Heritage Festival

If you love music, you can’t miss the Jazz & Heritage Festival. It’s a celebration of New Orleans’ musical roots. Jazz, blues, and gospel music are just some of the sounds you’ll hear. Food and crafts are also a big part of the festival.

 

French Quarter Festival

The French Quarter Festival is another music-filled event. It’s the largest free music festival in the United States. Over 20 stages host local musicians. You’ll enjoy jazz, R&B, and more. The food booths serve up local favorites!

 

Essence Festival

The Essence Festival is a cultural event like no other. It celebrates African American music and culture. Big names in music perform here. Workshops and speakers add to the experience. It’s a mix of fun and learning.

 

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience

Love food and wine? The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience is for you. Top chefs and wineries come together. They offer tastings and demonstrations. It’s a gourmet’s dream come true.

 

Halloween in New Orleans

Halloween in New Orleans is a unique experience. The city loves to dress up and party. Parades and haunted houses are everywhere. It’s spooky and fun for all ages!

 

Christmas in New Orleans

Christmas here is magical. The city lights up with decorations. Carolers sing in the streets. You can even ride a holiday-themed streetcar. It’s a festive time for families.

 

Other Notable Events

• Running of the Bulls: A quirky event where roller derby girls chase runners through the streets.
• Satchmo SummerFest: A festival honoring Louis Armstrong with music and food.
• New Orleans Film Festival: A chance for film lovers to see new and exciting movies.
• Bayou Boogaloo: A free outdoor festival with music, art, and food by the bayou.

 

Event Calendar

Event	Date	Description
Mardi Gras	February/March	A weeks-long celebration leading up to Fat Tuesday.
Jazz & Heritage Festival	April/May	A two-weekend festival celebrating New Orleans’ music and culture.
French Quarter Festival	April	The largest free music festival featuring local artists and cuisine.
Essence Festival	July	A celebration of African American music, culture, and empowerment.
New Orleans Wine & Food Experience	May	A culinary event showcasing top chefs and wineries.
Halloween	October	A festive and spooky celebration across the city.
Christmas	December	A holiday season filled with lights, carols, and decorations.
Running of the Bulls	July	A fun and humorous take on the Spanish tradition.
Satchmo SummerFest	August	A festival dedicated to the legendary Louis Armstrong.
New Orleans Film Festival	October	An annual event showcasing both established and emerging filmmakers.
Bayou Boogaloo	May	A free outdoor festival celebrating music, art, and community.

 

Check More Events in New Orleans and Festivals on Louisiana 2025

 

🟢 New Orleans January Events

 

• January 6 Carnival With Phunny Phorty Phellows
• January 6 Joan of Arc Parade Party
• January 6 Twelfth Night
• January 10 Fan Expo New Orleans
• January 11 Winter Music Festival
• January 12 School of Rock Winter Music Fest
• January 16 New Orleans Cigar Box Guitar Festival
• January 16-19 Teaser Fest

 

🟢 New Orleans February Events

• January 31/01 – 02/02 Boat Show New Orleans
• February 01 NOLA International Mural Fest
• February 08 Maxim Big Game Party
• February 08 Football Finale Weekend Book Festival
• February 06–09 Tet Fest
• February 15 Bayou King Cake Festival
• February 28 Mardi Gras Cavaliers Alumni Parade
• February 22 Krewe of Freret Parade

🟢 New Orleans March Events

• March 04 Mardi Gras
• March 06–07 Drake and J. Cole
• March 08 Louisiana Crawfish Festival Children’s Pageant
• March 13 Brian Culbertson
• March 14-16 Oyster Festival
• March 15 Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Parade
• March 20-23 NOLA Crawfish Festival / Crawfest
• March 26 – 30 TWFest (Tennessee Williams Festival)
• March 28 – 30 Kenner Italian Heritage Festival
• March 29 British Motoring Festival
• March 29 Aqua Fest
• March 30 Freret Street Festival
• March 30 Beaucoup de Chiens Pet Fest

🟢 New Orleans April Events

• April 3-6 The Overlook Film Festival
• April 4-5 Hogs for the Cause
• April 10-13 French Quarter Fest
• April 12 Passover and Unleavened Bread Feast Festival
• April 24-05/01 New Orleans Jazz And Heritage Festival
• April 24-27 Jazz Fest

 

🟢 New Orleans May Events

• May 01–04 Jazz Fest and Heritage Festival
• May 27 Greek Festival Run
• May 31 Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival
• May 25 Treme/7th Ward Arts and Culture Festival
• May 16-18 Bayou Boogaloo Festival
• May 24-26 Greek Festival
• May 01-31 Get’n Hooked Inshore Fishing Adventures

 

🟢 New Orleans June Events

• June 01 The Cajun Heritage Festival
• June 07 Pride at the Broadside
• June 08 French Market Creole Tomato Festival
• June 11-15 Wine and Food Experience
• June 12-15 New Orleans Pride Weekend
• June 18-22 NOLA Line Dance Fest
• June 30 A Goddess Pop-up Shop Essence Festival

 

🟢 New Orleans July Events

• July 03-06 Essence Fest
• July 05 White Linen Night
• July 07-14 Running of the bulls
• July 08-09 French Market Creole Tomato Festival
• July 12 Bastille Day
• July 14 Black Pride
• July 21-26 Tales of the Cocktail
• July (Unconfirmed Date) NOLA Caribbean Experience

 

🟢 New Orleans August Events

• August 02 Black Pride NOLA
• August 02-03 Satchmo Summer Fest
• August 06-10 NOLA Pickle Fest
• August 09 Red Dress Run
• August 10 Dirty Linen Night
• August 29 Southern Decadence

 

🟢 New Orleans September Events

• September Aug: 29-01 Southern Decadence Festival
• September 06 Nola Trap Wine Fest
• September 17 Tales of the Cocktail
• September 17 Hello Darling Live at the Lobby Lounge
• September (Date Updating) New Orleans Tattoo Arts Festival
• September 25 – Oct 05 NOLAxNOLA
• September 25-28 Alligator Festival Race / Alligator Festival
• September 27 NOLA Coffee Festival

 

🟢 New Orleans October Events

• October 04-05 Fried Chicken Festival
• October 04-06 Gretna Heritage Festival
• October 11-13 Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
• October 11-13 Gentilly Fest
• October 13-14, 20-21 Oktober fest
• October 18 NOLA Funk Fest
• October 24 Top Taco
• October Second Weekend Bridge City Gumbo Festival
• October 25-27 Nola Reggae Fest
• October 26 Tremé Fall Fest

🟢 New Orleans November Events

• November 01 Bayou Bacchanal
• November 07-10 Tulane Family Weekend
• November 07 New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
• November 09-10 Gumbo Festival
• November 16 Beignet Fest
• November 17 Louisiana’s Premier Tribute Festival
• November 20-23 Words and Music Literary Festival
• November 23 Nola Food Fest
• November 27 Jason Ricci and The Bad Kind
• November (Date Updating) Hennything NOLA
• November 30 Bayou Classic

 

🟢 New Orleans December Events

• December 03 -08 Elf Musical In New Orleans
• December 04 New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
• December 07 Ringing In The Arts and Fine Arts Festival
• December 07 Bulbancha Bluegrass & Old-Time Fest
• December 12-14 Louisiana Big Gator Comedy Festival
• December 13 Arts Market New Orleans
• December 13 Helen Annual Christmas Festival
• December 13-15 Bonfire Festival
• December 21 Delta Festival Ballet
• December (Date Updating) Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert
• December 31 Techno Affair Club presents

 

Plan Your Visit

When planning your visit, it’s smart to check the dates of these events. Many hotels book up fast during big festivals. You’ll want to get your spot early. Also, some events might have tickets or passes you’ll need to buy ahead of time.

 

What to Bring

For most events, you’ll want comfortable clothes and shoes. New Orleans can get hot, so light clothing is a good idea. Don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture the amazing sights and experiences. And, of course, bring a smile and be ready to have a good time!

 

Why New Orleans Events Are Special

New Orleans events are more than just fun. They bring people together. They celebrate the city’s rich history and culture. Each event has its own charm. They all share the New Orleans spirit of joy and community.

 

 

Conclusion

New Orleans is a city that knows how to throw a party. Its events are known worldwide. They offer something for everyone. Whether you love music, food, or just having a good time, New Orleans has an event for you. Plan your trip today and join the fun!