Best Festivals in New Orleans To Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler
Unforgettable Festivals in the Heart of New Orleans
New Orleans is known worldwide for its vibrant culture of food, music and an energy that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Here are some of the best festivals to check out in the crescent city.
January 6 - March 4
Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday) is the day before lent begins but the Carnival celebration actually starts on January 6, also know as Twelfth Night, and there are events, parades and Krewe balls throughout the season.
April 10 - 13
French Quarter Fest is a FREE four day celebration held in various locations in the historic French Quarter. Each year, over 1700 local musicians perform.
April 24 - May 4
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival spans two weeks and brings internationally known artists to the city to perform on 12 stages.
July 3 - 6
Essence Festival is the largest Black culture event in the United States. There are so many things to do aside from the Evening Concert Series.
August 2 - 3
Satchmo SummerFest is FREE and held annually on Louis Armstrong’s birthday. Expect great live music and check out their lecture series each day.
October 1
Home Fest is held annually to promote the business on on Bayou Road.
October 17 - 19
NOLA Funk Fest is full of great funk, jazz and blues performances and will kick off a new exhibit at the New Orleans Jazz Museum about Louisiana blues.
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October 2025 TBD
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival is FREE and features three days filled with live blues and jazz performances, a local art market, and some of the best BBQ vendors throughout the Crescent City.
Gentilly Fest is family-friendly and offers live music on three stages, a variety of culinary options food and art vendor. Proceeds from the festival are invested in the Gentilly neighborhood.
Treme Fall Festival starts with a 2nd line parade and the whole weekend puts a spotlight on the history and cultural significance of the Treme neighborhood. Funds raised during the festival help struggling music and cultural groups within the community.
NOLA Reggae Fest brings an island twist to New Orleans. Enjoy a family-friendly event with Irie vibes.
October 31 - November 1
Bayou Bacchanal is really the best of both worlds. Experience the energy of a Caribbean carnival in New Orleans in historic Congo Square.
November 1
NOLA Zydeco Fest is a family-friendly festival that returns this November to highlight this southwestern Louisiana music genre on the river at Crescent Park.
November 2025 TBD
Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival is a FREE festival that will, of course, have lots of gumbo. There will also be performances by local brass bands and an arts market.
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