August 22, 2025
Aug. 29 – Sept. 1, 2025
Southern Decadence 2025
Southern Decadence happens over the Labor Day weekend from Thursday through Monday. This annual festival takes place in New Orleans over Labor Day weekend, drawing thousands of revelers from around the world. The event began in 1972 as a small gathering of friends and has since evolved into a massive multi-day celebration featuring parades, parties, and live performances. The highlight of the festival is the Southern Decadence Parade, which winds through the historic French Quarter with extravagant costumes, themed floats, and high-energy music. Today crowds surpass 250,000 to celebrate the conclusion of the summer with annual parties, a parade, burlesque shows, drag shows, block parties, and brunches. https://www.southerndecadence.com/
Sept. 25 – Oct. 5, 2025
NOLAxNOLA 2025
NOLAxNOLA 2025 is an unforgettable celebration of New Orleans music, venues and artists. Taking place in iconic music venues across the city, they have a diverse lineup of local and national artists making it a must-visit event for music enthusiasts. https://www.neworleans.com/nolaxnola/
Sept. 25 – Oct. 1, 2025
International Arts festival
The International Arts Fest NOLA was created to celebrate the beauty of art envisioned through the lens of instruments, paintbrushes, voices, imagery, and poetry. The festival will take place at Armstrong Park, but has a host of other special events happening around the city at such noteworthy venues like Gallier Hall and The Fillmore New Orleans. The multi-day event platform is designed to spotlight the incredible New Orleans musicians among a carefully curated list of global stars many from select cities with formal “Sister City” agreements. The goal is to present and celebrate authentic international culture while creating a forum to set a business and economic agenda. https://iafnola.com/
Oct. 3 – 5, 2025
Gretna Fest
Gretna Fest is a culture festival in Gretna, Louisiana. The festival offers live music from local, national, and international acts, food, arts & crafts, games, and much more. The festival started in 1994 as a small community event. It has since grown to become one of the largest festivals in Louisiana. The 2025 lineup includes an exciting slate of international acts and local performers. With headliners such as Sam Hunt, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and Collective Soul alongside fast-rising stars and fan favorites like Brothers Osborne and Natasha Bedingfield, Gretna Fest has something for everyone to enjoy. https://gretnafest.com/
Oct. 4 – 5, 2025
National Fried Chicken Festival
Founded in 2016 in New Orleans, the National Fried Chicken Festival (FCF) presented by Raising Cane’s is a two-day outdoor festival bringing together hundreds of thousands from across the nation around a shared love of great food, music, and culture. This year’s festival will include a wide variety of world-class dishes from over 40 participating restaurants, all-day entertainment from renowned musicians, DJs, and chefs, multiple 21+ VIP options, including a new unlimited Beer Garden, large-scale sponsor activations, family-friendly games and activities, share-worthy photo ops, and much more throughout the weekend. The festival is held at the scenic New Orleans Lakefront along Lakeshore Drive at Franklin Avenue in the greenspace directly behind the UNO Lakefront Arena located at 6801 Franklin Ave., New Orleans, LA. https://friedchickenfestival.com/
Oct. 10 – 12, 2025
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
The annual Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, 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. This free festival takes place at Lafayette Square Park which is bordered by Poydras Street and St. Charles Avenue; across from the historical Gallier Hall, former City Hall and another great site for music throughout the years. The festival, established in 2006, continues New Orleans’ historic role in making the blues and R&B among the most influential sounds in the world. The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival presents many of the top performers from southern Louisiana and Mississippi, plus delicious food and unique visual art. https://www.jazzandheritage.org/events/crescent-city-blues-bbq-festival-2025/
Oct. 10 – 25, 2025
Oktoberfest
Presented by Deutsches Haus, Oktoberfest NOLA brings Germany’s beloved celebration to the Crescent City for three weekends filled with German culture, cuisine, and fun. Fest-goers can expect a host of authentic German foods, live music, dances, and activities. Deutsches Haus is located just across the street from Bayou St. John at City Park. Traditional German staples and classics such as brats, sauerkraut, Bavarian-style pretzels, German cheeses, and more will pair perfectly with the wide selection of German beers, wines, and schnapps. Finish off your meal with warm apple strudel or Bavarian roasted nuts. Daily activities and interactive programming give fest-goers the opportunity to immerse themselves in German cultures and traditions. You can expect events such as Masskrugstemmen (beer stein holding contest), chicken dancing, Schnitzelbank (humorous German group sing-alongs), and much more throughout the weekends. https://oktoberfestnola.com/
Oct. 17 – 19, 2025
Praise on the Bayou
Praise Fest on the Bayou, the Gospel Music Experience was created in 2009 to bring back families and communities for a weekend of A Gospel Music Experience along with family fun activities in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. This three-day outdoor event is free and open to the public. Local and National Christian/Gospel music artists, entertainers, and world renowned speakers will once again Bless us over the 3-day period. The purpose of this event is to bring different cultures together to Praise and worship the Lord Jesus Christ as one body. The audience is compiled of families, churches, community leaders, and professionals. https://www.praisefestnola.com/
Oct. 23 – Nov. 2, 2025
New Orleans Film Festival
The New Orleans Film Festival, which is organized by the New Orleans Film Society, stands as a prestigious celebration of independent filmmaking that has been advocating for diverse voices and innovative narratives for more than 36 years. Acknowledged by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the "25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World," the festival showcases a rich mix of local, national, and international talent, promoting connections within the film industry while celebrating the distinctive cultural vibrancy of New Orleans. During the New Orleans Film Festival, the city shines even more brightly as a hub of culture and creativity, with over 250 filmmakers from around the globe attending more than 150 films. From the Second Line parade that follows the opening night film to late-night cocktails, live music in historic mansions, and cinematic views of the Mississippi River, we aspire for all attendees to leave inspired, with lasting stories to share and deeper connections to one another and to the art of filmmaking. https://neworleansfilmsociety.org/attend/
Oct. 24 – 26, 2025
Halloween New Orleans
Halloween New Orleans is a three-day event. Prepare to ascend to the realm of gods and legends as HNO 2025 takes you on an epic odyssey through the myths of ancient times. Join us for a weekend of divine revelry and legendary entertainment, all in support of Project Lazarus, as we celebrate 42 years of Halloween New Orleans. All proceeds from this event will go to Project Lazarus L, Halloween New Orleans is one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ party weekends of the year while also being one of the longest-running and most respected fundraising events in the country. https://www.halloweenneworleans.com/
Oct. 24 – 26, 2025
New Orleans Reggae Festival
The 2025 Nola Reggae Fest will be in the historic Congo Square for Music, Food, Arts & Crafts, and Vibes. The festival this year will welcome international artists, bands, and DJs on 2 stages on 3 different days and variety of local vendors selling everything from food to arts & crafts. Create lasting memories with friends and family of all ages while immersing yourself in Jamaican-inspired fun. From lively dance and music to captivating art and cultural demonstrations, the festival offers a rich blend of entertainment. And let's not forget about the delicious food trucks and vendors. This year, the festival will take place at Congo Square from Oct. 24-26, 2025. The festival runs from 2-8 p.m. daily. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-nola-reggae-fest-tickets-1369000991819?aff=erelexpmlt
Oct. 25, 2025
Krewe of Boo
The Krewe of Boo Parade will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2024 in the French Quarter starting at 6:30 p.m. Krewe of BOO!, the official Halloween Parade in New Orleans, was created in 2007. With floats constructed by Kern Studios, America’s premier float-building organization, has designed 3-D paper mâché and fiberglass props that mimic all of Halloween’s spooky creatures. Parade riders will throw various items to onlookers as they pass by, much to the delight of both children and adults. Parade throws will include candy, chee wees, pralinettes, light-up medallion beads, voodoo doll pins and magnets, doubloons, and children’s toys. Krewe of BOO! throws are all collectable or consumable, which cuts back on waste. Today the parade boats 450 riders, 15 floats, and 35 marching bands and dance krewes. Krewe of BOO! has grown from a single parade into a weekend full of events. After the parade, check out the post-parade, adults only after MONSTER MASH at Generations Hall. Costumes required! https://www.kreweofboo.com/
Oct. 25, 2025
Treme Fall Fest
The 10th Annual Tremé Fall Festival celebrates the rich culture and history of New Orleans' historic Tremé neighborhood. This cultural celebration features local musicians, food vendors, art displays, and community activities, all while raising funds to support St. Augustine Catholic Church and local cultural organizations. The event includes a Patron Party on Oct. 17, 2025 at the George & Joyce Wein Heritage Center. The festival is located at 1210 Governor Nicholls, New Orleans, in the heart of the Tremé neighborhood. The day begins with a second line parade through the neighborhood featuring bands, baby dolls, Zulu tramps, and stilt-walkers. https://www.tremefest.org/
Oct. 31 – Nov. 1, 2025
Bayou Bacchanal
New Orleans has been called the "northernmost Caribbean city" and with good reason, from our cultural roots through music and food to our tropical climate. Bayou Bacchanal, the original Caribbean Carnival of New Orleans, is at Congo Square located in Louis Armstrong Park. Presented by Friends of Culture, Bayou Bacchanal will include Caribbean cuisine, dance, music, and celebration. https://www.friendsofculture.org/
Nov. 1 – 2, 2025
Zydeco Fest
NOLA Zydeco Fest is an annual event that bridges the FLAVORS of Southwest & Southeast Louisiana Culture. The 5th Annual NOLA Zydeco Fest, a vibrant celebration of Creole music, culture, food, and dance— will take place this year on the bayou at Heritage Park in Slidell! This one-of-a-kind festival brings together legendary zydeco performers, cultural heritage experiences, and authentic Louisiana vibes for all ages. https://nolazydecofest.com/
Nov. 8 – 9, 2025
Treme Gumbo Festival
The Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival is a vibrant celebration showcasing the culinary and cultural heritage of the Tremé neighborhood at Louis Armstrong Park. Renowned for its diverse gumbo offerings, the festival presents a feast for the senses, with local chefs dishing out their unique interpretations of this beloved culinary staple. Alongside the food, festival-goers can enjoy live music performances reflecting Treme’s deep-rooted musical legacy, from jazz and blues to brass bands. The festival also features local artisans, crafts, and activities for the little fest-goers. It’s a lively atmosphere that honors the community’s history and spirit. It’s a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors and rhythms of New Orleans. https://www.jazzandheritage.org/events/2025-treme-creole-gumbo-festival/
Nov. 13 – 16, 2025
LUNA Fete Light up the night at LUNA Fête, New Orleans’ annual festival of light, art, and technology and the nation’s longest running projection mapping festival. LUNA Fête is a visionary initiative created by Arts New Orleans to demonstrate the power of art to transform communities. This year the event will take place down Lafayette Street starting at Lafayette Square Park. LUNA Fête combines dynamic contemporary art, film, and technology in a multi-day large-scale public art festival. Free and open to the public, LUNA Fête offers innovative and exciting fun for all ages. Most installations run continuously throughout the festival, with the exception of the premiere projection which nightly from 6 – 10 p.m. every hour on the hour. This free and open to the public festival celebrates New Orleans creative industries and provides a memorable experience. More than 250 New Orleans artists and 60 youth have advanced their technical and artistic skills through this unique educational opportunity. https://www.lunafete.com/
Nov. 15, 2025
Beignet Fest
The city’s favored French treat is celebrated at the Beignet Festival in City Park Festival Grounds. Come hungry and feast on delicious, decadent delicacies from traditional sweet treats covered in powdered sugar to savory options bursting with seafood, cheese and more from some of the city’s best restaurants, caterers, and food trucks. The festival’s menu lineup includes more than 80 menu options with nearly 50 unique takes on beignets including vegan and gluten-free beignets. Standout favorites include crabmeat beignets, praline-stuffed beignets, fried chicken and beignets, bananas foster beignets, cheese and seafood-filled beignets, and more. In recent years, new food vendors have featured options such as plantains and mochi beignets, alfajores, and empanadas. The event also includes live, local music performances, a Kids Village, Artist Market, and Beer Garden. https://beignetfest.com/
Nov. 16, 2025
Oak Street Po-Boy Festival
The Oak Street Merchants, Residents and Property Owners will hold the 17th Annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival, presented by Tony Chachere’s from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m between the 8100-8700 blocks of Oak Street. The festival will once again host 40 food vendors and beverage vendors, live music on multiple stages, Saints Game watching, VIP Area, Arts Market, Kids Zone, sponsor-activations, opening parade, and a po-boy competition juried by celebrity judges. The festival continues to maintain its status as one of the most unique and exciting events of the year. Each fall, since 2007, New Orleanians have set aside a day to honor the humble and historic Po-Boy sandwich where upwards of 50,000 strong come to eat, drink, dance and shop the historic and vibrant Oak Street. https://www.poboyfest.com/
Nov. 27, 2025
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving in New Orleans is a wonderful opportunity to experience our unique and delicious cuisine. Many of the city’s finest restaurants are open for Thanksgiving lunch or dinner, as does most hotels. Another special place to go on Thanksgiving Day is the Fairgrounds Race Course and Slots. The third oldest track in the country offers a wide selection of options, ranging from ultra-modern dining facilities in a glass-enclosed clubhouse – complete with video monitors at each table – to no-frills grandstand seating outdoors along with an oyster bar. Or work up an appetite by starting your day off at the Turkey Day Race at Tad Gormley Stadium. Established in 1907, the New Orleans Athletic Club's Turkey Day Race is one of the oldest, continuously held non-marathon races in the United States. Starting and finishing at Tad Gormley Stadium in New Orleans City Park, the morning includes 5 Mile and kids' half-mile run/walk races. Families from around the country have made this event one of their favorite holiday traditions, with multiple generations participating year after year. Proceeds benefit Spina Bifida of Louisiana.
Southern Decadence 2025
Southern Decadence happens over the Labor Day weekend from Thursday through Monday. This annual festival takes place in New Orleans over Labor Day weekend, drawing thousands of revelers from around the world. The event began in 1972 as a small gathering of friends and has since evolved into a massive multi-day celebration featuring parades, parties, and live performances. The highlight of the festival is the Southern Decadence Parade, which winds through the historic French Quarter with extravagant costumes, themed floats, and high-energy music. Today crowds surpass 250,000 to celebrate the conclusion of the summer with annual parties, a parade, burlesque shows, drag shows, block parties, and brunches. https://www.southerndecadence.com/
Sept. 25 – Oct. 5, 2025
NOLAxNOLA 2025
NOLAxNOLA 2025 is an unforgettable celebration of New Orleans music, venues and artists. Taking place in iconic music venues across the city, they have a diverse lineup of local and national artists making it a must-visit event for music enthusiasts. https://www.neworleans.com/nolaxnola/
Sept. 25 – Oct. 1, 2025
International Arts festival
The International Arts Fest NOLA was created to celebrate the beauty of art envisioned through the lens of instruments, paintbrushes, voices, imagery, and poetry. The festival will take place at Armstrong Park, but has a host of other special events happening around the city at such noteworthy venues like Gallier Hall and The Fillmore New Orleans. The multi-day event platform is designed to spotlight the incredible New Orleans musicians among a carefully curated list of global stars many from select cities with formal “Sister City” agreements. The goal is to present and celebrate authentic international culture while creating a forum to set a business and economic agenda. https://iafnola.com/
Oct. 3 – 5, 2025
Gretna Fest
Gretna Fest is a culture festival in Gretna, Louisiana. The festival offers live music from local, national, and international acts, food, arts & crafts, games, and much more. The festival started in 1994 as a small community event. It has since grown to become one of the largest festivals in Louisiana. The 2025 lineup includes an exciting slate of international acts and local performers. With headliners such as Sam Hunt, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and Collective Soul alongside fast-rising stars and fan favorites like Brothers Osborne and Natasha Bedingfield, Gretna Fest has something for everyone to enjoy. https://gretnafest.com/
Oct. 4 – 5, 2025
National Fried Chicken Festival
Founded in 2016 in New Orleans, the National Fried Chicken Festival (FCF) presented by Raising Cane’s is a two-day outdoor festival bringing together hundreds of thousands from across the nation around a shared love of great food, music, and culture. This year’s festival will include a wide variety of world-class dishes from over 40 participating restaurants, all-day entertainment from renowned musicians, DJs, and chefs, multiple 21+ VIP options, including a new unlimited Beer Garden, large-scale sponsor activations, family-friendly games and activities, share-worthy photo ops, and much more throughout the weekend. The festival is held at the scenic New Orleans Lakefront along Lakeshore Drive at Franklin Avenue in the greenspace directly behind the UNO Lakefront Arena located at 6801 Franklin Ave., New Orleans, LA. https://friedchickenfestival.com/
Oct. 10 – 12, 2025
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
The annual Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival, presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, 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. This free festival takes place at Lafayette Square Park which is bordered by Poydras Street and St. Charles Avenue; across from the historical Gallier Hall, former City Hall and another great site for music throughout the years. The festival, established in 2006, continues New Orleans’ historic role in making the blues and R&B among the most influential sounds in the world. The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival presents many of the top performers from southern Louisiana and Mississippi, plus delicious food and unique visual art. https://www.jazzandheritage.org/events/crescent-city-blues-bbq-festival-2025/
Oct. 10 – 25, 2025
Oktoberfest
Presented by Deutsches Haus, Oktoberfest NOLA brings Germany’s beloved celebration to the Crescent City for three weekends filled with German culture, cuisine, and fun. Fest-goers can expect a host of authentic German foods, live music, dances, and activities. Deutsches Haus is located just across the street from Bayou St. John at City Park. Traditional German staples and classics such as brats, sauerkraut, Bavarian-style pretzels, German cheeses, and more will pair perfectly with the wide selection of German beers, wines, and schnapps. Finish off your meal with warm apple strudel or Bavarian roasted nuts. Daily activities and interactive programming give fest-goers the opportunity to immerse themselves in German cultures and traditions. You can expect events such as Masskrugstemmen (beer stein holding contest), chicken dancing, Schnitzelbank (humorous German group sing-alongs), and much more throughout the weekends. https://oktoberfestnola.com/
Oct. 17 – 19, 2025
Praise on the Bayou
Praise Fest on the Bayou, the Gospel Music Experience was created in 2009 to bring back families and communities for a weekend of A Gospel Music Experience along with family fun activities in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. This three-day outdoor event is free and open to the public. Local and National Christian/Gospel music artists, entertainers, and world renowned speakers will once again Bless us over the 3-day period. The purpose of this event is to bring different cultures together to Praise and worship the Lord Jesus Christ as one body. The audience is compiled of families, churches, community leaders, and professionals. https://www.praisefestnola.com/
Oct. 23 – Nov. 2, 2025
New Orleans Film Festival
The New Orleans Film Festival, which is organized by the New Orleans Film Society, stands as a prestigious celebration of independent filmmaking that has been advocating for diverse voices and innovative narratives for more than 36 years. Acknowledged by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the "25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World," the festival showcases a rich mix of local, national, and international talent, promoting connections within the film industry while celebrating the distinctive cultural vibrancy of New Orleans. During the New Orleans Film Festival, the city shines even more brightly as a hub of culture and creativity, with over 250 filmmakers from around the globe attending more than 150 films. From the Second Line parade that follows the opening night film to late-night cocktails, live music in historic mansions, and cinematic views of the Mississippi River, we aspire for all attendees to leave inspired, with lasting stories to share and deeper connections to one another and to the art of filmmaking. https://neworleansfilmsociety.org/attend/
Oct. 24 – 26, 2025
Halloween New Orleans
Halloween New Orleans is a three-day event. Prepare to ascend to the realm of gods and legends as HNO 2025 takes you on an epic odyssey through the myths of ancient times. Join us for a weekend of divine revelry and legendary entertainment, all in support of Project Lazarus, as we celebrate 42 years of Halloween New Orleans. All proceeds from this event will go to Project Lazarus L, Halloween New Orleans is one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ party weekends of the year while also being one of the longest-running and most respected fundraising events in the country. https://www.halloweenneworleans.com/
Oct. 24 – 26, 2025
New Orleans Reggae Festival
The 2025 Nola Reggae Fest will be in the historic Congo Square for Music, Food, Arts & Crafts, and Vibes. The festival this year will welcome international artists, bands, and DJs on 2 stages on 3 different days and variety of local vendors selling everything from food to arts & crafts. Create lasting memories with friends and family of all ages while immersing yourself in Jamaican-inspired fun. From lively dance and music to captivating art and cultural demonstrations, the festival offers a rich blend of entertainment. And let's not forget about the delicious food trucks and vendors. This year, the festival will take place at Congo Square from Oct. 24-26, 2025. The festival runs from 2-8 p.m. daily. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-nola-reggae-fest-tickets-1369000991819?aff=erelexpmlt
Oct. 25, 2025
Krewe of Boo
The Krewe of Boo Parade will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2024 in the French Quarter starting at 6:30 p.m. Krewe of BOO!, the official Halloween Parade in New Orleans, was created in 2007. With floats constructed by Kern Studios, America’s premier float-building organization, has designed 3-D paper mâché and fiberglass props that mimic all of Halloween’s spooky creatures. Parade riders will throw various items to onlookers as they pass by, much to the delight of both children and adults. Parade throws will include candy, chee wees, pralinettes, light-up medallion beads, voodoo doll pins and magnets, doubloons, and children’s toys. Krewe of BOO! throws are all collectable or consumable, which cuts back on waste. Today the parade boats 450 riders, 15 floats, and 35 marching bands and dance krewes. Krewe of BOO! has grown from a single parade into a weekend full of events. After the parade, check out the post-parade, adults only after MONSTER MASH at Generations Hall. Costumes required! https://www.kreweofboo.com/
Oct. 25, 2025
Treme Fall Fest
The 10th Annual Tremé Fall Festival celebrates the rich culture and history of New Orleans' historic Tremé neighborhood. This cultural celebration features local musicians, food vendors, art displays, and community activities, all while raising funds to support St. Augustine Catholic Church and local cultural organizations. The event includes a Patron Party on Oct. 17, 2025 at the George & Joyce Wein Heritage Center. The festival is located at 1210 Governor Nicholls, New Orleans, in the heart of the Tremé neighborhood. The day begins with a second line parade through the neighborhood featuring bands, baby dolls, Zulu tramps, and stilt-walkers. https://www.tremefest.org/
Oct. 31 – Nov. 1, 2025
Bayou Bacchanal
New Orleans has been called the "northernmost Caribbean city" and with good reason, from our cultural roots through music and food to our tropical climate. Bayou Bacchanal, the original Caribbean Carnival of New Orleans, is at Congo Square located in Louis Armstrong Park. Presented by Friends of Culture, Bayou Bacchanal will include Caribbean cuisine, dance, music, and celebration. https://www.friendsofculture.org/
Nov. 1 – 2, 2025
Zydeco Fest
NOLA Zydeco Fest is an annual event that bridges the FLAVORS of Southwest & Southeast Louisiana Culture. The 5th Annual NOLA Zydeco Fest, a vibrant celebration of Creole music, culture, food, and dance— will take place this year on the bayou at Heritage Park in Slidell! This one-of-a-kind festival brings together legendary zydeco performers, cultural heritage experiences, and authentic Louisiana vibes for all ages. https://nolazydecofest.com/
Nov. 8 – 9, 2025
Treme Gumbo Festival
The Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival is a vibrant celebration showcasing the culinary and cultural heritage of the Tremé neighborhood at Louis Armstrong Park. Renowned for its diverse gumbo offerings, the festival presents a feast for the senses, with local chefs dishing out their unique interpretations of this beloved culinary staple. Alongside the food, festival-goers can enjoy live music performances reflecting Treme’s deep-rooted musical legacy, from jazz and blues to brass bands. The festival also features local artisans, crafts, and activities for the little fest-goers. It’s a lively atmosphere that honors the community’s history and spirit. It’s a must-attend event for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors and rhythms of New Orleans. https://www.jazzandheritage.org/events/2025-treme-creole-gumbo-festival/
Nov. 13 – 16, 2025
LUNA Fete Light up the night at LUNA Fête, New Orleans’ annual festival of light, art, and technology and the nation’s longest running projection mapping festival. LUNA Fête is a visionary initiative created by Arts New Orleans to demonstrate the power of art to transform communities. This year the event will take place down Lafayette Street starting at Lafayette Square Park. LUNA Fête combines dynamic contemporary art, film, and technology in a multi-day large-scale public art festival. Free and open to the public, LUNA Fête offers innovative and exciting fun for all ages. Most installations run continuously throughout the festival, with the exception of the premiere projection which nightly from 6 – 10 p.m. every hour on the hour. This free and open to the public festival celebrates New Orleans creative industries and provides a memorable experience. More than 250 New Orleans artists and 60 youth have advanced their technical and artistic skills through this unique educational opportunity. https://www.lunafete.com/
Nov. 15, 2025
Beignet Fest
The city’s favored French treat is celebrated at the Beignet Festival in City Park Festival Grounds. Come hungry and feast on delicious, decadent delicacies from traditional sweet treats covered in powdered sugar to savory options bursting with seafood, cheese and more from some of the city’s best restaurants, caterers, and food trucks. The festival’s menu lineup includes more than 80 menu options with nearly 50 unique takes on beignets including vegan and gluten-free beignets. Standout favorites include crabmeat beignets, praline-stuffed beignets, fried chicken and beignets, bananas foster beignets, cheese and seafood-filled beignets, and more. In recent years, new food vendors have featured options such as plantains and mochi beignets, alfajores, and empanadas. The event also includes live, local music performances, a Kids Village, Artist Market, and Beer Garden. https://beignetfest.com/
Nov. 16, 2025
Oak Street Po-Boy Festival
The Oak Street Merchants, Residents and Property Owners will hold the 17th Annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival, presented by Tony Chachere’s from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m between the 8100-8700 blocks of Oak Street. The festival will once again host 40 food vendors and beverage vendors, live music on multiple stages, Saints Game watching, VIP Area, Arts Market, Kids Zone, sponsor-activations, opening parade, and a po-boy competition juried by celebrity judges. The festival continues to maintain its status as one of the most unique and exciting events of the year. Each fall, since 2007, New Orleanians have set aside a day to honor the humble and historic Po-Boy sandwich where upwards of 50,000 strong come to eat, drink, dance and shop the historic and vibrant Oak Street. https://www.poboyfest.com/
Nov. 27, 2025
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving in New Orleans is a wonderful opportunity to experience our unique and delicious cuisine. Many of the city’s finest restaurants are open for Thanksgiving lunch or dinner, as does most hotels. Another special place to go on Thanksgiving Day is the Fairgrounds Race Course and Slots. The third oldest track in the country offers a wide selection of options, ranging from ultra-modern dining facilities in a glass-enclosed clubhouse – complete with video monitors at each table – to no-frills grandstand seating outdoors along with an oyster bar. Or work up an appetite by starting your day off at the Turkey Day Race at Tad Gormley Stadium. Established in 1907, the New Orleans Athletic Club's Turkey Day Race is one of the oldest, continuously held non-marathon races in the United States. Starting and finishing at Tad Gormley Stadium in New Orleans City Park, the morning includes 5 Mile and kids' half-mile run/walk races. Families from around the country have made this event one of their favorite holiday traditions, with multiple generations participating year after year. Proceeds benefit Spina Bifida of Louisiana.
