November 19, 2025
New Orleans, during the winter months, offers a unique experience for tourists, characterized by milder temperatures and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore the city's renowned music venues, indulge in its famous cuisine and participate in various festivals that celebrate its rich heritage. From Christmas and New Year’s through Mardi Gras Day and all the fun in between, New Orleans has so much to offer visitors. Here are just a few highlights to check out.
Celebration in the Oaks (Nov. 28, 2025 - Jan. 1, 2026)
Celebration in the Oaks is a beloved annual holiday event that spans from Thanksgiving to the New Year. This enchanting festival transforms New Orleans City Park into a stunning display of lights and festive decorations across 25 acres that includes The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Visitors can experience one of the nation's most impressive holiday light shows, featuring illuminated oak trees and a scenic 2.25-mile driving tour adorned with over a million lights. Additionally, guests have the option to embark on a walking tour that grants access to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. Tickets for this magical experience can be purchased at celebrationintheoaks.com.
Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village (Nov. 30 – Dec. 31, 2025)
Enjoy the holiday spirit with family and friends at Kenner's Magical Christmas Village, where you can enjoy lights, snow, music, food, arts, crafts and a special appearance from Santa Claus himself. Don't miss out on exciting vendors and entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays only. The free event takes place at Heritage Park in Rivertown. This event is open to the public every day in December from 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM. For more information, go to https://www.kenner.la.us/486/Kenners-Magical-Christmas-Village
Deutsches Haus Christkindlmarkt (Dec. 5 – 7, 2025)
Deutsches Haus is set to host its 7th annual Christkindlmarkt, or Christmas Market. This festive outdoor market, rooted in German tradition since the late Middle Ages, celebrates the Advent season with a variety of offerings. Attendees can enjoy an array of food and beverages, along with seasonal items and unique handmade gifts available from open-air stalls. The shopping experience will be enhanced by traditional Christmas music and caroling, creating a magical atmosphere for evening visitors under twinkling lights. For more details, go to https://deutscheshaus.org/market/
Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade (Dec. 6, 2025)
The Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade marks the beginning of the festive season each year, drawing thousands of spectators to the streets of downtown New Orleans. This cherished event showcases 30 beautifully decorated holiday floats, vibrant helium balloons and an array of lively dance troupes and marching bands. The parade commences at the French Market, weaving through the historic French Quarter. For more info, go to https://nolaholidayparade.com/
Algiers Holiday Bonfire and Concert (Dec. 6, 2025)
Each year, along the banks of the Mississippi River, a time-honored tradition is observed in Algiers – with a dash of New Orleans flavor! The Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert is the largest public event in Algiers and the Westbank’s hottest holiday event. As the only holiday bonfire in New Orleans, this event is both an opportunity to take part in a unique Louisiana cultural tradition and a fun, family-friendly annual community gathering. In addition to the bonfire, the event includes musical performances, food vendors and a holiday market. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to https://www.algierseconomic.com/calendar/2025-algiers-bonfire/
Krewe of Krampus (Dec. 6, 2025)
Embracing the spirit of a traditional European Krampuslauf, the Krewe NOLAuf will host an evening parade on Dec. 6, 2025, featuring Krampus, complete with switches, alongside Saint Nicholas and a variety of other mythical figures. Unique to New Orleans, the Sisters of Shhh, whose name signifies "She Harkens Him," will also participate, signaling the presence of Krampus with their striking white attire. This parade holds the title of the largest Krampus celebration in the United States, offering a distinctive New Orleans flair. For further details, visit kreweofkrampus.com.
8th Annual Improvisations Gala (Dec. 6, 2025)
Step into Storyville at the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s 8th Annual Improvisations Gala presented by the Herb Alpert Foundation. One unforgettable night of nonstop revelry with music across five stages, burlesque, Baby Dolls, gaming tables, dazzling activations, food, cocktails and an auction. For more info, go to https://nolajazzmuseum.org/gala
Viva Las Vegas: The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum's 25th Annual Fundraiser (Dec. 6, 2025)
The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum celebrates 75 years of historic preservation and education with its 25th Annual Fundraiser. Join us for a live auction, raffle, casino games, food, drink and martini bar. For more info, go to https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/pharmacymuseum/items/617140/calendar/2025/12/?flow=1039548&full-items=yes
Greenway SuperNova (Dec. 11 - 13, 2025)
Greenway Supernova is an annual holiday lights exhibit on the Lafitte Greenway. Featuring collaborations with several artists, plus food and music, the Greenway transforms into a winter wonderland in this free-to-attend family-friendly festival. The Lafitte Greenway is a public linear park connecting the French Quarter to Bayou St. John and Mid-City. This event is free and open to the public. Get more information at lafittegreenway.org/supernova
NOLA ChristmasFest (Dec. 20 - 29, 2025)
NOLA ChristmasFest, invites you into an enchanting indoor, family friendly winter wonderland. From dazzling holiday displays—featuring a brand-new giant gingerbread house—to an expanded ice slide zone, cookie decorating, a sparkling ice-skating rink, thrilling Carnival rides and festive live entertainment, there’s magic for everyone. This year also introduces an extremely limited-capacity, exclusive experience: ice bumper cars. See nolachristmasfest.com for daily session times.
Caroling in the Square (Dec. 21, 2025)
Since 1946, Jackson Square has been a gathering place for Christmas Carolers, who come together to share the joy of the holiday season. Each year, the square transforms into a festive scene filled with the sounds of Christmas music and the glow of candlelight, attracting thousands of attendees from diverse backgrounds and faiths. The event is free and welcomes everyone. Gates open at 6:30 PM. For more info go to https://patioplanters.net/events/caroling-in-jackson-square/
New Orleans Bowl (Dec. 23, 2025)
Since 2001, the New Orleans Bowl has been a flagship event for the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation. The 25th annual New Orleans Bowl features teams from the Sun Belt Conference and Conference USA, showcasing top-tier college football talent at the Caesars Superdome. For more information or tickets go to www.neworleansbowl.org. Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee (Dec. 24, 2025)
One of our area’s most unique holiday traditions is the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the levee long the Mississippi River. The tradition dates back to the earliest Cajun settlers of the regions of southern Louisiana to the west and north of New Orleans. These bonfires are intended to light the way for “Papa Noël,” the Cajun Santa Claus. The earlier bonfire structures were simple in design, but now they have become masterful works of art. Most of the Christmas Eve bonfires are found in St. James Parish (county). Many more bonfires may be erected in the adjoining communities of Gramercy, Lutcher and Paulina, and more may be scattered in other locations in St. James and neighboring parishes. There are tours that can take you out to the bonfires through: www.graylineneworleans.com/holiday-tours.html
Allstate Sugar Bowl (Jan. 1, 2026)
The 2026 Sugar Bowl, a prestigious college football bowl game, is set to take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. This event is part of a cherished New Year’s Day tradition, as the Allstate Sugar Bowl, the second-oldest college bowl game in the United States, features a significant championship matchup each year. The game typically showcases the champions of the Southeastern and Big 12 conferences or serves as a College Football Playoff Semifinal. For further details, visit allstatesugarbowl.org.
Phunny Phorty Phellows (Jan. 6, 2026)
The Phunny Phorty Phellows will once again embark on their festive journey on Twelfth Night, Jan. 6, marking the official start of the carnival season. This event leads up to the highly anticipated Phunny Phorty Phellows Parade, where members of the Krewe of Oak will gather to celebrate the Phellows, who will don masks and costumes aboard a streetcar at 6:30 p.m. The parade will commence at 7 p.m., following the St. Charles Avenue streetcar route to Canal Street and back. Established in 1878 as a satirical krewe, the Phellows originally paraded until 1898 and made a triumphant return in 1981. Today, many of their costumes continue to embody satirical themes. For further details, visit: http://www.phunnyphortyphellows.com/
Joan of Arc Parade (Jan. 6, 2026)
This annual walking procession, held in celebration of St. Joan of Arc’s birthday and Twelfth Night, is a theatrical event that evokes the spirit of medieval France in the 1400s. Joan of Arc, known as "The Maid of Orleans," achieved her first significant victory in 1429 by liberating the citizens of Orleans from a British siege. The procession pays tribute to our unofficial patron saint, the beloved golden statue of Joan located in the French Quarter, a gift from France to New Orleans in the 1950s, reflecting our rich French heritage. This family-friendly parade begins promptly at 8 p.m., featuring medieval pageantry along the way. Participants don golden attire to mirror the statue, while others embrace the medieval theme with costumes, music, and a variety of performers, including knights, jugglers and stiltwalkers, all contributing to a vibrant celebration. For further details, please visit https://joanofarcparade.org/who-we-are/parade-route/.
Fan Expo New Orleans (Jan. 9 – 11, 2026)
Fan Expo New Orleans is a three-day celebration that brings together fandoms across sci-fi, horror, anime, gaming, comics and cosplay, with celebrity appearances, autograph and photo-ops, panels, artist workshops and a bustling show floor full of unique merchandise. It began in 2011 as Wizard World New Orleans, and over the years has welcomed stars like Stan Lee, Jason Momoa, Gillian Anderson and Jeremy Renner. The Fan Expo is located in the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (900 Convention Center Blvd) in Halls I and J. For tickets go to: https://fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans/
Teaser Fest (Jan. 15 – 18, 2026)
Featuring over a hundred performances over four days, Teaser Festival is a four-day celebration of Burlesque, fine food, well-crafted beverages, and live entertainment; an exploration of talented and varied bodies, incredible music, and the city of New Orleans which is the ‘Cradle of Creation’ for the art forms that celebrate all these ideals. The Festival features the best burlesque performers from across the globe as well as hometown heroes and live music from New Orleans as it emphasizes the cocktail and culinary scenes only found in New Orleans. For more details, go to https://www.teaserfest.com/
Winterfest 2025 (Jan. 17, 2026)
Experience Winterfest, an annual celebration of homebrewing hosted by the Crescent City Homebrewers. This year's event will feature over 40 unique homebrewed beverages, highlighting the creativity and dedication of local brewers. For a ticket price of $40, you will have access to a diverse selection of beers, meads, ciders and wines. For ticket purchases, please visit eventbrite.com or crescentcityhomebrewers.org.
The Algiers Mardi Gras Festival (Jan. 24, 2026)
The Algiers Mardi Gras Festival is a free, festive family-friendly event. Get into the Mardi Gras spirit with a community parade, food, and lots of music. A community parade kicks off the event at 9 a.m. honoring this year's Grand Marshal and features local Algiers schools marching bands, cultural groups, and dance groups. The parade starts at Lamarque Street and L.B. Landry Avenue. The festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more details, go to https://www.algiersmardigrasfest.com/
Krewe of Chewbacchus (Jan. 24, 2026)
The Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus (IKoC) is a Mardi Gras parade organization for revelrous Star Wars freaks, Trekkies, Whovians, mega-geeks, gamers, cosplayers, circuit benders, cryptozoologists, UFO conspiracy theorists, mad scientists and all super nerds. Chewbacchus is founded on improving the known ’Verse through community and revelry. In joining together to craft, costume, parade, and socialize, we build stronger connections and a better world. For more information, go to: hewbacchus.org/
Krewe Bohème (Jan. 30, 2026, 2026)
The Krewe Bohème is a marching parade that winds through the Marigny and French Quarter. They’re comprised of many smaller walking krewes, including the Krewe of Goddesses, The Merry Antoinettes, and the Glambeaux. The spirit of the krewe invokes mystery, artistry, and fun and is led by a green absinthe fairy. The krewe was inspired by absinthe, a formerly outlawed liqueur favored by Belle Époque artists, which is reputed to have hallucinatory properties. The dreamy Boheme is led by their languid mascot, a green absinthe fairy. For more info go to: kreweboheme.com/
Krewe du Vieux (Jan. 31, 2026)
The Krewe du Vieux is a non-profit organization dedicated to the historical and traditional concept of a Mardi Gras parade as a venue for individual creative expression and satirical comment. It is unique among all Mardi Gras parades in the city because it alone carries on the old traditions of Carnival celebrations, by using decorated mule-drawn floats with satirical themes. Krewe du Vieux is loved for its wild satire, adult themes and political comedy, as well as for showcasing some of the best brass and jazz bands in New Orleans. For more information, go to kreweduvieux.org
Krewe of Cork (Feb. 6, 2026)
Founded in 2000, the Krewe of Cork celebrates food, wine and fun with a spirited walking parade through the French Quarter. Krewe members wear costumes with a wine-related theme, toss throws bearing their grape logo, and are accompanied along their route by wine police in golf carts (the wine police motto is "To serve and pour”). The parade's Grand Marshal is a different vintner ever year. After the procession ends, the wine continues to flow at the "King and Queen Libation Ball.” For more information, go to: https://thekreweofcork.com/
Krewe of Barkus Parade (Feb. 8, 2026)
The Mystic Krewe of Barkus isn’t like other Mardi Gras parades: this one has gone to the dogs. Man’s best friend is the center of this parade through the streets of the French Quarter with their humans acting as their escorts. Barkus was created in 1992 and is an officially licensed Mardi Gras Krewe that your dog can be part of the celebration. Registration information is available on their website and on the day of the event. For humans, there is a Barkus Royal Ball. For more information, go to: kreweofbarkus.org/
Krewe of Bosom Buddies (Feb. 13, 2026)
Founded in 2013, the krewe set out to create “a laid-back, inexpensive, fun, colorful and fearless walking krewe full of fabulous women and the men who support them.” Every year, the krewe dresses colorfully in tutus, bras and hats that reflect that year’s theme. For more information, go to https://bosombuddiesnola.org
Krewe of Armeinius (Feb. 13, 2026)
The Krewe of Armeinius was formed in 1968 and is one of the oldest active gay krewes in New Orleans having their first ball in 1969. The krewe continues to prosper and its ranks now include many young men along with seasoned veterans. This year’s theme is Drag Queen Story Hour. Tickets and more information for this year’s ball can be found at armeinius.org/
Royal Sonesta’s Greasing of the Poles (Feb. 13, 2026)
Greasing of the Poles is a quirky Mardi Gras tradition, held for over fifty years at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans. This annual event, held the Friday before Mardi Gras, features celebrity guests, live music and raucous entertainment as participants attempt to climb up the hotel’s famous Bourbon Street balconies. Originally a practical measure to deter revelers, Greasing of the Poles is now a beloved New Orleans tradition. For more information, go to: https://neworleansroyal.sonesta.com/destination/mardi-gras/Mardi Gras with The Royal Sonesta New Orleans Mardi Gras with The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
Celebration in the Oaks (Nov. 28, 2025 - Jan. 1, 2026)
Celebration in the Oaks is a beloved annual holiday event that spans from Thanksgiving to the New Year. This enchanting festival transforms New Orleans City Park into a stunning display of lights and festive decorations across 25 acres that includes The Park, Botanical Garden, Storyland and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Visitors can experience one of the nation's most impressive holiday light shows, featuring illuminated oak trees and a scenic 2.25-mile driving tour adorned with over a million lights. Additionally, guests have the option to embark on a walking tour that grants access to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden. Tickets for this magical experience can be purchased at celebrationintheoaks.com.
Kenner’s Magical Christmas Village (Nov. 30 – Dec. 31, 2025)
Enjoy the holiday spirit with family and friends at Kenner's Magical Christmas Village, where you can enjoy lights, snow, music, food, arts, crafts and a special appearance from Santa Claus himself. Don't miss out on exciting vendors and entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays only. The free event takes place at Heritage Park in Rivertown. This event is open to the public every day in December from 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM. For more information, go to https://www.kenner.la.us/486/Kenners-Magical-Christmas-Village
Deutsches Haus Christkindlmarkt (Dec. 5 – 7, 2025)
Deutsches Haus is set to host its 7th annual Christkindlmarkt, or Christmas Market. This festive outdoor market, rooted in German tradition since the late Middle Ages, celebrates the Advent season with a variety of offerings. Attendees can enjoy an array of food and beverages, along with seasonal items and unique handmade gifts available from open-air stalls. The shopping experience will be enhanced by traditional Christmas music and caroling, creating a magical atmosphere for evening visitors under twinkling lights. For more details, go to https://deutscheshaus.org/market/
Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade (Dec. 6, 2025)
The Manning Family Children’s Holiday Parade marks the beginning of the festive season each year, drawing thousands of spectators to the streets of downtown New Orleans. This cherished event showcases 30 beautifully decorated holiday floats, vibrant helium balloons and an array of lively dance troupes and marching bands. The parade commences at the French Market, weaving through the historic French Quarter. For more info, go to https://nolaholidayparade.com/
Algiers Holiday Bonfire and Concert (Dec. 6, 2025)
Each year, along the banks of the Mississippi River, a time-honored tradition is observed in Algiers – with a dash of New Orleans flavor! The Algiers Holiday Bonfire & Concert is the largest public event in Algiers and the Westbank’s hottest holiday event. As the only holiday bonfire in New Orleans, this event is both an opportunity to take part in a unique Louisiana cultural tradition and a fun, family-friendly annual community gathering. In addition to the bonfire, the event includes musical performances, food vendors and a holiday market. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to https://www.algierseconomic.com/calendar/2025-algiers-bonfire/
Krewe of Krampus (Dec. 6, 2025)
Embracing the spirit of a traditional European Krampuslauf, the Krewe NOLAuf will host an evening parade on Dec. 6, 2025, featuring Krampus, complete with switches, alongside Saint Nicholas and a variety of other mythical figures. Unique to New Orleans, the Sisters of Shhh, whose name signifies "She Harkens Him," will also participate, signaling the presence of Krampus with their striking white attire. This parade holds the title of the largest Krampus celebration in the United States, offering a distinctive New Orleans flair. For further details, visit kreweofkrampus.com.
8th Annual Improvisations Gala (Dec. 6, 2025)
Step into Storyville at the New Orleans Jazz Museum’s 8th Annual Improvisations Gala presented by the Herb Alpert Foundation. One unforgettable night of nonstop revelry with music across five stages, burlesque, Baby Dolls, gaming tables, dazzling activations, food, cocktails and an auction. For more info, go to https://nolajazzmuseum.org/gala
Viva Las Vegas: The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum's 25th Annual Fundraiser (Dec. 6, 2025)
The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum celebrates 75 years of historic preservation and education with its 25th Annual Fundraiser. Join us for a live auction, raffle, casino games, food, drink and martini bar. For more info, go to https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/pharmacymuseum/items/617140/calendar/2025/12/?flow=1039548&full-items=yes
Greenway SuperNova (Dec. 11 - 13, 2025)
Greenway Supernova is an annual holiday lights exhibit on the Lafitte Greenway. Featuring collaborations with several artists, plus food and music, the Greenway transforms into a winter wonderland in this free-to-attend family-friendly festival. The Lafitte Greenway is a public linear park connecting the French Quarter to Bayou St. John and Mid-City. This event is free and open to the public. Get more information at lafittegreenway.org/supernova
NOLA ChristmasFest (Dec. 20 - 29, 2025)
NOLA ChristmasFest, invites you into an enchanting indoor, family friendly winter wonderland. From dazzling holiday displays—featuring a brand-new giant gingerbread house—to an expanded ice slide zone, cookie decorating, a sparkling ice-skating rink, thrilling Carnival rides and festive live entertainment, there’s magic for everyone. This year also introduces an extremely limited-capacity, exclusive experience: ice bumper cars. See nolachristmasfest.com for daily session times.
Caroling in the Square (Dec. 21, 2025)
Since 1946, Jackson Square has been a gathering place for Christmas Carolers, who come together to share the joy of the holiday season. Each year, the square transforms into a festive scene filled with the sounds of Christmas music and the glow of candlelight, attracting thousands of attendees from diverse backgrounds and faiths. The event is free and welcomes everyone. Gates open at 6:30 PM. For more info go to https://patioplanters.net/events/caroling-in-jackson-square/
New Orleans Bowl (Dec. 23, 2025)
Since 2001, the New Orleans Bowl has been a flagship event for the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation. The 25th annual New Orleans Bowl features teams from the Sun Belt Conference and Conference USA, showcasing top-tier college football talent at the Caesars Superdome. For more information or tickets go to www.neworleansbowl.org. Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee (Dec. 24, 2025)
One of our area’s most unique holiday traditions is the Christmas Eve Bonfires on the levee long the Mississippi River. The tradition dates back to the earliest Cajun settlers of the regions of southern Louisiana to the west and north of New Orleans. These bonfires are intended to light the way for “Papa Noël,” the Cajun Santa Claus. The earlier bonfire structures were simple in design, but now they have become masterful works of art. Most of the Christmas Eve bonfires are found in St. James Parish (county). Many more bonfires may be erected in the adjoining communities of Gramercy, Lutcher and Paulina, and more may be scattered in other locations in St. James and neighboring parishes. There are tours that can take you out to the bonfires through: www.graylineneworleans.com/holiday-tours.html
Allstate Sugar Bowl (Jan. 1, 2026)
The 2026 Sugar Bowl, a prestigious college football bowl game, is set to take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. This event is part of a cherished New Year’s Day tradition, as the Allstate Sugar Bowl, the second-oldest college bowl game in the United States, features a significant championship matchup each year. The game typically showcases the champions of the Southeastern and Big 12 conferences or serves as a College Football Playoff Semifinal. For further details, visit allstatesugarbowl.org.
Phunny Phorty Phellows (Jan. 6, 2026)
The Phunny Phorty Phellows will once again embark on their festive journey on Twelfth Night, Jan. 6, marking the official start of the carnival season. This event leads up to the highly anticipated Phunny Phorty Phellows Parade, where members of the Krewe of Oak will gather to celebrate the Phellows, who will don masks and costumes aboard a streetcar at 6:30 p.m. The parade will commence at 7 p.m., following the St. Charles Avenue streetcar route to Canal Street and back. Established in 1878 as a satirical krewe, the Phellows originally paraded until 1898 and made a triumphant return in 1981. Today, many of their costumes continue to embody satirical themes. For further details, visit: http://www.phunnyphortyphellows.com/
Joan of Arc Parade (Jan. 6, 2026)
This annual walking procession, held in celebration of St. Joan of Arc’s birthday and Twelfth Night, is a theatrical event that evokes the spirit of medieval France in the 1400s. Joan of Arc, known as "The Maid of Orleans," achieved her first significant victory in 1429 by liberating the citizens of Orleans from a British siege. The procession pays tribute to our unofficial patron saint, the beloved golden statue of Joan located in the French Quarter, a gift from France to New Orleans in the 1950s, reflecting our rich French heritage. This family-friendly parade begins promptly at 8 p.m., featuring medieval pageantry along the way. Participants don golden attire to mirror the statue, while others embrace the medieval theme with costumes, music, and a variety of performers, including knights, jugglers and stiltwalkers, all contributing to a vibrant celebration. For further details, please visit https://joanofarcparade.org/who-we-are/parade-route/.
Fan Expo New Orleans (Jan. 9 – 11, 2026)
Fan Expo New Orleans is a three-day celebration that brings together fandoms across sci-fi, horror, anime, gaming, comics and cosplay, with celebrity appearances, autograph and photo-ops, panels, artist workshops and a bustling show floor full of unique merchandise. It began in 2011 as Wizard World New Orleans, and over the years has welcomed stars like Stan Lee, Jason Momoa, Gillian Anderson and Jeremy Renner. The Fan Expo is located in the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (900 Convention Center Blvd) in Halls I and J. For tickets go to: https://fanexpohq.com/fanexponeworleans/
Teaser Fest (Jan. 15 – 18, 2026)
Featuring over a hundred performances over four days, Teaser Festival is a four-day celebration of Burlesque, fine food, well-crafted beverages, and live entertainment; an exploration of talented and varied bodies, incredible music, and the city of New Orleans which is the ‘Cradle of Creation’ for the art forms that celebrate all these ideals. The Festival features the best burlesque performers from across the globe as well as hometown heroes and live music from New Orleans as it emphasizes the cocktail and culinary scenes only found in New Orleans. For more details, go to https://www.teaserfest.com/
Winterfest 2025 (Jan. 17, 2026)
Experience Winterfest, an annual celebration of homebrewing hosted by the Crescent City Homebrewers. This year's event will feature over 40 unique homebrewed beverages, highlighting the creativity and dedication of local brewers. For a ticket price of $40, you will have access to a diverse selection of beers, meads, ciders and wines. For ticket purchases, please visit eventbrite.com or crescentcityhomebrewers.org.
The Algiers Mardi Gras Festival (Jan. 24, 2026)
The Algiers Mardi Gras Festival is a free, festive family-friendly event. Get into the Mardi Gras spirit with a community parade, food, and lots of music. A community parade kicks off the event at 9 a.m. honoring this year's Grand Marshal and features local Algiers schools marching bands, cultural groups, and dance groups. The parade starts at Lamarque Street and L.B. Landry Avenue. The festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more details, go to https://www.algiersmardigrasfest.com/
Krewe of Chewbacchus (Jan. 24, 2026)
The Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus (IKoC) is a Mardi Gras parade organization for revelrous Star Wars freaks, Trekkies, Whovians, mega-geeks, gamers, cosplayers, circuit benders, cryptozoologists, UFO conspiracy theorists, mad scientists and all super nerds. Chewbacchus is founded on improving the known ’Verse through community and revelry. In joining together to craft, costume, parade, and socialize, we build stronger connections and a better world. For more information, go to: hewbacchus.org/
Krewe Bohème (Jan. 30, 2026, 2026)
The Krewe Bohème is a marching parade that winds through the Marigny and French Quarter. They’re comprised of many smaller walking krewes, including the Krewe of Goddesses, The Merry Antoinettes, and the Glambeaux. The spirit of the krewe invokes mystery, artistry, and fun and is led by a green absinthe fairy. The krewe was inspired by absinthe, a formerly outlawed liqueur favored by Belle Époque artists, which is reputed to have hallucinatory properties. The dreamy Boheme is led by their languid mascot, a green absinthe fairy. For more info go to: kreweboheme.com/
Krewe du Vieux (Jan. 31, 2026)
The Krewe du Vieux is a non-profit organization dedicated to the historical and traditional concept of a Mardi Gras parade as a venue for individual creative expression and satirical comment. It is unique among all Mardi Gras parades in the city because it alone carries on the old traditions of Carnival celebrations, by using decorated mule-drawn floats with satirical themes. Krewe du Vieux is loved for its wild satire, adult themes and political comedy, as well as for showcasing some of the best brass and jazz bands in New Orleans. For more information, go to kreweduvieux.org
Krewe of Cork (Feb. 6, 2026)
Founded in 2000, the Krewe of Cork celebrates food, wine and fun with a spirited walking parade through the French Quarter. Krewe members wear costumes with a wine-related theme, toss throws bearing their grape logo, and are accompanied along their route by wine police in golf carts (the wine police motto is "To serve and pour”). The parade's Grand Marshal is a different vintner ever year. After the procession ends, the wine continues to flow at the "King and Queen Libation Ball.” For more information, go to: https://thekreweofcork.com/
Krewe of Barkus Parade (Feb. 8, 2026)
The Mystic Krewe of Barkus isn’t like other Mardi Gras parades: this one has gone to the dogs. Man’s best friend is the center of this parade through the streets of the French Quarter with their humans acting as their escorts. Barkus was created in 1992 and is an officially licensed Mardi Gras Krewe that your dog can be part of the celebration. Registration information is available on their website and on the day of the event. For humans, there is a Barkus Royal Ball. For more information, go to: kreweofbarkus.org/
Krewe of Bosom Buddies (Feb. 13, 2026)
Founded in 2013, the krewe set out to create “a laid-back, inexpensive, fun, colorful and fearless walking krewe full of fabulous women and the men who support them.” Every year, the krewe dresses colorfully in tutus, bras and hats that reflect that year’s theme. For more information, go to https://bosombuddiesnola.org
Krewe of Armeinius (Feb. 13, 2026)
The Krewe of Armeinius was formed in 1968 and is one of the oldest active gay krewes in New Orleans having their first ball in 1969. The krewe continues to prosper and its ranks now include many young men along with seasoned veterans. This year’s theme is Drag Queen Story Hour. Tickets and more information for this year’s ball can be found at armeinius.org/
Royal Sonesta’s Greasing of the Poles (Feb. 13, 2026)
Greasing of the Poles is a quirky Mardi Gras tradition, held for over fifty years at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans. This annual event, held the Friday before Mardi Gras, features celebrity guests, live music and raucous entertainment as participants attempt to climb up the hotel’s famous Bourbon Street balconies. Originally a practical measure to deter revelers, Greasing of the Poles is now a beloved New Orleans tradition. For more information, go to: https://neworleansroyal.sonesta.com/destination/mardi-gras/Mardi Gras with The Royal Sonesta New Orleans Mardi Gras with The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
