Fun Summer Culinary Festivals in New Orleans You Don’t Want to Miss
Despite the soaring temps, summer in New Orleans is packed with festivals. While you won’t go hungry at any of this summer’s music and culture festivals like Satchmo SummerFest, here are five summer events that focus on local food and drink specifically.
French Market Creole Tomato Festival
Saturday-Sunday, June 6-7, 2026
Traditionally held in early June, the annual (and free!) French Market Creole Tomato Festival welcomes the arrival of Creole tomatoes, which Louisiana loves to incorporate into many local recipes. The French Market location and the food offerings make this a popular festival among locals and visitors alike.
Celebrating its 40th year in 2026, the festival features live music at the market and in Dutch Alley, kids’ activities, a tomato-eating contest, free dance lessons, and a second line. There are cooking demos in addition to an extensive menu from participating food vendors of Creole tomatoes incorporated into gelato, crepes, crawfish pies — you name it. You can also get Creole tomatoes from the participating farm stands.
Kick off the Creole Tomato Festival with the Ripe & Ready second line on Saturday, June 6, at 10:30 a.m. It’s open to all, and you’re encouraged to wear “your favorite tomato attire.” The second line will form at Oscar Dunn Park, 700 Decatur Street, across from Jackson Square, and walk to the French Market festival location. On both Saturday and Sunday the fest will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The festival is spread out between the tents and the stages located at the Farmers Market, the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint (this one is indoors), and Dutch Alley. The live music schedule never disappoints.
Restaurant Week New Orleans
Monday-Sunday, June 8-14, 2026
During Restaurant Week, you can enjoy multi-course, special menus and dining deals in numerous participating restaurants, from upscale Creole eateries to neighborhood bistros. Keep up with this year’s list of participating restaurants and their menus, and don’t miss a chance to try a new spot or revisit your favorite.
New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
Wednesday-Saturday, June 10-13, 2026
In its 34th year in 2026, the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (NOWFE) is a smorgasbord of food and wine tastings, tours, master classes, and the annual champagne-soaked burlesque brunch. Each year, hundreds of wineries and restaurants participate, offering menus featuring local flavors and innovative new creations inspired by diverse cuisines.
Top chefs from around the city create unique culinary experiences, so much so that the event regularly makes a few national “best of” festival lists. The organization behind this popular event is a nonprofit that donates 100% of its proceeds to beneficiaries ranging from food banks to culinary schools. You can see all the events and get tickets online. Also, you can read our NOWFE guide for more details.
Tales of the Cocktail
Sunday-Friday, July 19-24, 2026
This cork-popping annual industry gathering keeps expanding to include more wine and spirits tastings, tours, parties, seminars, book signings, bartender contests, and more every year. The event draws the worldwide cocktail community with its packed schedule.
Tales of the Cocktail was conceived as a bar industry networking and education event targeting bar owners, mixologists, and other pros, but its focus on celebrating not just trends but history and culture has made it popular with the general public and cocktail enthusiasts from all walks of life.
The “best of” Spirited Awards, and the prix fixe tasting menus and food-pairing dinners are especially popular. The tours and cocktail-themed parties also tend to sell out quickly, while the opening night street party is free and open to everyone. Tickets for events are sold individually, so you can build your own itinerary. Here are some more details about this popular event.
COOLinary
Saturday-Monday, August 1-31, 2026
There’s no better time to try out an award-winning restaurant during your visit than in August. For the whole month, this dining program offers discounted dining deals at participating restaurants located all over the city, and even stretching as far as Harvey and Kenner. Orchestrated by the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, it was conceived as a promotion to attract diners to local restaurants during the slower summer months.
In over a decade, COOLinary has kept growing in size and popularity, with over 100 restaurants participating in the past couple of years. Those run the gamut from the iconic to the smaller, more casual ones. The list includes the famous Antoine’s, Arnaud’s, Bayona, Commander’s Palace, Domenica, Tujague’s, and Galatoire’s.
Coming to New Orleans this summer?
Check out our guide to where to stay in the French Quarter, and be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels. Also, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans.
For easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime!
Happy summer!
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Bayou Boogaloo: A New Chapter
Photo courtesy of Bayou Boogaloo on Facebook
One of the standouts in the seemingly never-ending string of festivals New Orleans hosts all year round is the Bayou Boogaloo, which grew from the post-Katrina scrappy little neighborhood festival to a weekend-long extravaganza.
Since its inception in 2006, Bayou Boogaloo has drawn thousands and has become as much a fixture on the festival calendar as its Mid-City neighbor, Jazz Fest, and the city’s street-party season opener, French Quarter Fest.
Also a favorite of both the locals and the in-the-know visitors, and until this year, this festival took place not in the French Quarter but on the sprawling, picturesque banks of Bayou St. John — between Dumaine Streets and Lafitte Avenue in the Mid-City neighborhood. Its bucolic setting as a floating party, with its flotillas of inflatables, paddle boats, and kayaks, gave the three-day festival its own unique character.
Bayou Boogaloo 2026
This year, Bayou Boogaloo takes place between Friday, May 15, and Sunday, May 17, 2026. Just like in previous years, the festival is family-friendly (but do check with the venues, especially for the evening shows). Traditionally, the Boogaloo focused on mostly local music, including the best of the brass bands, zydeco, Mardi Gras Indians, and other incredible New Orleans and Louisiana acts.
For 2026, instead of going bigger, organizers are intentionally scaling back. After years of growth, the festival is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from its traditional location on Bayou St. John and reimagining its format entirely. Instead of a sprawling waterfront festival, attendees can expect a more curated, venue-based experience.
This year, there’s a new format and two new venues. No more floating parties or the banks of Bayou St. John. In its 20th (!) year, Bayou Boogaloo is trying something different. More than 20 artists will perform on three stages at the two new venues, the historic Pitot House (1440 Moss Street) and The Broadside, an indoor/outdoor Mid-City venue (600 N. Broad Street).
The Pitot House is located in Bayou St. John in Mid-City. It’s a circa 1799 West Indies-style home with gardens and a museum. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was home to the first U.S. Mayor of New Orleans, James Pitot, and his family. The Broadside will host a free, family-friendly outdoor market on Saturday and Sunday featuring local artists and food vendors. All other events are ticketed (get your tickets here).
The advanced weekend pass is now $50 on the festival’s website. There’s also The Canopy Club VIP Experience ($200), which will take place at the Pitot House on Saturday and Sunday, where you can enjoy a patron-style gathering in a bucolic outdoor setting along Bayou St. John. The experience will feature local musicians, complimentary food and drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere shaded by the trees and grounds of this historic property. Single-day tickets are $20 per day for the evening shows at the Broadside.
The Music Lineup
At The Broadside
Friday, May 15, 6 – 11 p.m.
Two-Tone Merigold, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
HollyRock, 8 – 9:15 p.m.
Where Y’acht, 9:45 – 11:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 16, 3:30 – 11 p.m.
Public market and music start at 3:30 p.m.
River Eckert, 3:30 – 4:40 p.m.
Davis Rogan, 4:50 – 6 p.m.
Tom Worrell, 6:10 – 7:15 p.m.
Stage performances:
Big Chief Brian & The Nouveau Bounce featuring James Andrews, 7:15 – 8:30 p.m.
Sinead Angele Band, 8:15 – 9:30 p.m.
Last Dance: A Tribute to Donna Summer featuring Anais St. John, 9 – 11 p.m.
Neonautica, 9:50 – 11 p.m.
Sunday, May 17, 3:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Public market and music start at 3:30 p.m.
Jay Dufour, 3:30 – 4:40 p.m.
Jared Daws, 4:50 – 5:50 p.m.
Stage performances:
Colin Davis & Night People, 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Al “Little Fats” Jackson, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
River Eckert Band, 8 – 9:30 p.m.
At the Pitot House
Saturday, May 15, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Robert Eustis with Andre Bohren, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Kristin Diable, 1 – 2 p.m.
Johnny Vidacovich Trio, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 17, 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Shawn Williams, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Dusky Waters, 1 – 2:00 p.m.
Desert Nudes, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m.
The Food
This year, vendors include the Big Easy Charcuterie Co., which will offer Italian ice, charcuterie cups and boards, and acai bowls; 4 of Us Catering with shrimp, catfish, or crawfish po-boys; and Da GM’s Smoke & Soul BBQ. Da GM’s brings smoked ribs and wings, Dat Long sausage, NOLA “Who Dat” bowls featuring smoked brisket or pulled pork, and loaded Louisiana nachos, among other items.
Why the Venue Change?
As founder Jared Zeller told Fox 8, “rising costs, permitting challenges, and sponsorship pressures prompted the move.” He said:
“The reality is like the cost of putting on big scale outdoor events continues to increase… Looking at that and looking at the risks associated with it and some struggles we’ve had with permitting issues. We decided to take a pause, a creative pause in 2026 and just reset.”
There’s also a broader reality at play. With a crowded festival calendar and limited sponsorship dollars in New Orleans, sustaining a large-scale, free-flowing event has become increasingly difficult. As one organizer noted, the traditional format had become “too risky” given financial constraints and resource limitations.
Neighborhood concerns have also influenced the decision. In recent years, residents raised issues about parking, noise, and cleanup, prompting organizers to reconsider the long-term sustainability of hosting the event along the bayou.
A “Creative Pause” for the Future
Organizers have described the 2026 festival as a “creative pause” — a chance to reset and rethink what Bayou Boogaloo should look like moving forward.
For many longtime fans, the absence of the iconic floating party on Bayou St. John may feel like a loss. That scene — colorful rafts, music drifting across the water, and a truly communal vibe — has been central to the festival’s identity for nearly two decades.
However, this evolution may be necessary to ensure the event’s survival. By scaling back now, organizers hope to avoid financial strain and preserve the festival for years to come.
The Bayou Boogaloo 2026 won’t look like the festival many have come to expect, but it’s far from disappearing. Instead, it’s entering a new phase, one that prioritizes sustainability, community impact, and long-term viability.
What Else Do You Need to Know?
According to the festival’s website, the showtime listed for the event is the time the event starts. Doors will generally open an hour before the listed show time unless otherwise listed.
Pets are allowed during the day, but not at night for music (anything after 7 p.m ). Service animals are always allowed.
The organizers urge attendees not to park in the Broad Theater parking lot. There is a parking lot for The Broadside and street parking available on Toulouse and Lafitte. If you would like to be escorted to your car, please ask the Sheriff on duty. You may also park in the Auto Zone parking lot when they are closed.
The Broadside’s outdoor space has a variety of seating options such as benches, picnic tables, chairs, and stools. If you require a seat for health reasons or disability, please ask a staff member, and they can provide you with a chair.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bayou Boogaloo 2026
When is Bayou Boogaloo 2026?
Bayou Boogaloo 2026 is scheduled for May 15-17, 2026, offering a weekend of music, food, and local culture.
Where is Bayou Boogaloo being held in 2026?
For its 20th anniversary, Bayou Boogaloo will not take place on Bayou St. John. Instead, events will be hosted at venues in Mid-City, including Pitot House and The Broadside.
Why did the festival move from Bayou St. John?
Organizers made the change due to rising production costs, logistical challenges, and community concerns such as noise, parking, and environmental impact. The move is part of a broader effort to make the festival more sustainable long-term.
Will there still be a floating party on the bayou?
No, the floating party on Bayou St. John will not be part of the 2026 festival due to the change in location and format.
What kind of music and entertainment can I expect?
Attendees can still enjoy a wide range of live music, including local New Orleans artists, along with food vendors, art markets, and cultural programming that reflect the city’s unique spirit.
Is Bayou Boogaloo family-friendly?
Yes, the festival typically includes family-friendly activities, especially during daytime hours. However, specific programming may vary by venue, so it’s a good idea to check schedules in advance.
Do I need tickets to attend?
Unlike previous years, which often had free entry, the 2026 festival is expected to include ticketed access due to its venue-based format. Ticket details and pricing vary depending on the event and location. The outdoor market at The Broadside on Saturday and Sunday is free.
Is this a permanent change for Bayou Boogaloo?
Not necessarily. Organizers have described 2026 as a “creative pause” to rethink the festival’s future. The format may continue to evolve in the coming years.
To get updates on the music and vendor lists for this year, check out the Bayou Boogaloo website or the festival’s Facebook page and Instagram.
Are you visiting this spring and planning on attending Bayou Boogaloo? We got you covered! Check out our top recommendations for hotels in the French Quarter.
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This May in New Orleans
Photo courtesy of New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on Facebook
May sits in the New Orleans climatic sweet spot. It’s sunny, and you can wear shorts on most days, but it’s (usually) not super hot yet. Come evening, when the thermometer starts to dip into the 70s, the air feels something like perfect. If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans this May, find your French Quarter hotel, and check out these big events you can enjoy during your stay.
Jazz Fest
Thursday, April 23 – Sunday, May 3, 2026
Jazz Fest is the biggest music festival in the best music city in the USA and one of the marquee events on the New Orleans calendar. For the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May, the city hosts hundreds of bands and thousands of tourists, who stream into the Fair Grounds Race Course from around the world.
Dozens of food vendors will show off the best of local cuisine, while artisans create and trade Louisiana crafts. On the days between the weekends, some of the world’s great musicians will be partying (and often, playing) at gigs all around the city.
The Jazz Fest lineup is famously scheduled into “cubes” for attendees. So, find your cubes, and enjoy yourself!
Attending for the first time? Check out our First-Timer’s Guide to the New Orleans Jazz Fest!
New Orleans Greek Festival
Friday-Sunday, May 22-24, 2026
New Orleans Greek Festival returns on the Memorial Day weekend to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral (1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd.). As usual, expect great Hellenic music, traditional dancing, cathedral tours, ouzo, Greek wines, and Greek coffee, plus, of course, the food.
Oh, the food. Souvlaki, baklava, dolma (stuffed grape leaves), spanakopita (spinach pie), and gyro sandwiches (pita bread pockets stuffed with lamb, pork, and zesty sauce), and more. The fest is kid-friendly, and is held both indoors and outdoors.
More May Events
Although not specific to New Orleans, there are a few events you can celebrate here with gusto. Grab a margarita at one of our many wonderful restaurants on Cinco de Mayo (Tuesday, May 5, 2026), celebrate Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10, 2026) by booking brunch at one of the many elegant eateries, or visit The National World War II Museum to honor Memorial Day (Monday, May 25, 2026).
Coming to New Orleans in May?
Check out our guide to where to stay in the French Quarter, and be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels. Also, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans.
For easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime!
Happy May!
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Best Places for Cocktails Outdoors in the French Quarter
Image courtesy of Jewel of the South on Facebook
The French Quarter in New Orleans is famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic courtyards, and classic cocktails that define the spirit of the city. Whether you’re searching for a romantic garden setting, a lively street-side seat for people-watching, or a refined craft cocktail experience, the French Quarter offers an incredible range of options. From iconic historic venues to hidden courtyard gems, here are some of the best places to enjoy cocktails outdoors in one of America’s most beloved neighborhoods.
Classic French Quarter Courtyards & Garden Patios
1113 Decatur St.
Cane & Table blends Caribbean-inspired cuisine with inventive craft cocktails in a lush tropical courtyard. The atmosphere feels relaxed yet upscale, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a stylish night out. Their rum-focused drink menu pairs perfectly with the warm New Orleans evenings.
727 Toulouse St.
This intimate cocktail bar delivers classic New Orleans elegance. Set within a historic courtyard, Peychaud’s specializes in meticulously crafted local favorites like the Sazerac and Ramos Gin Fizz, offering a quieter alternative to the busier streets nearby.
900 Royal St.
Hidden behind a historic carriage house, Café Amelie features one of the most enchanting garden courtyards in the French Quarter. The peaceful setting pairs beautifully with classic cocktails and Creole-inspired dishes.
500 Chartres St.
Steeped in history and charm, Napoleon House is best known for its refreshing Pimm’s Cup. Guests can enjoy drinks in the shaded courtyard or inside the rustic historic interior, making it a must-stop for visitors seeking authentic New Orleans character.
Iconic & Lively Cocktail Spots
820 N. Rampart St.
A favorite among locals, Bar Tonique is known for its creative craft cocktails and energetic atmosphere. Outdoor tables allow guests to enjoy both expertly mixed drinks and the buzz of the neighborhood.
The Elysian Bar at Hotel Peter and Paul
2313 Burgundy St.
Located just outside the French Quarter in the Marigny, The Elysian Bar offers a visually stunning setting inside a restored historic complex. Its elegant outdoor seating makes it worth the short trip for a sophisticated cocktail experience.
Hidden Gems & Sophisticated Cocktail Experiences
1026 St. Louis St.
Jewel of the South delivers refined, historically inspired cocktails in a stylish courtyard setting. The attention to detail in both the drinks and ambiance makes it one of the most elevated cocktail destinations in the Quarter.
719 Toulouse St.
This lively cocktail bar offers creative drinks and a fun social atmosphere. Its lush outdoor seating makes it a great stop before or after dinner nearby.
625 Chartres St.
Sylvain combines a relaxed courtyard with inventive cocktails and modern Southern flavors. The laid-back vibe makes it popular for both locals and visitors.
21st Amendment at La Louisiane
725 Iberville St.
A classic French Quarter bar with a welcoming courtyard, 21st Amendment is known for well-made drinks and a casual neighborhood feel. A bonus: It’s Prohibition-themed, and the building that houses the bar dates back to 1881.
Historic Restaurants With Great Cocktail Atmosphere
417 Royal St.
An iconic New Orleans restaurant established in 1946, Brennan’s offers elegant cocktails in a gorgeous courtyard setting. Every Friday at 5 p.m., there’s champagne sabering in the courtyard, plus a high-end champagne happy hour that includes discounts on bottles and a variety of bubbly cocktails. Not to tempt you any further, but Brennan’s is credited with inventing Bananas Foster. The dramatic, tableside-flambéed original remains a standalone draw for the post-dinner crowd and to this day apparently remains the restaurant’s most-ordered item.
430 Dauphine St.
Chef Susan Spicer’s Bayona, located in a charming historic cottage, features a serene courtyard and an upscale cocktail experience paired with globally inspired cuisine. The quiet elegance makes it ideal for a relaxed evening.
613 Royal St.
Famous for its historic courtyard dining, Court of Two Sisters also serves classic cocktails in a beautiful garden setting that reflects old-world New Orleans charm. Check out the daily jazz brunch buffet of Cajun and Creole cuisine.
801 Chartres St.
Muriel’s offers generous balcony seating overlooking the historic square, making it a fantastic place to sip cocktails while enjoying one of the most scenic views in the French Quarter.
630 St. Peter St.
While best known for its traditional Creole dishes, the award-winning Gumbo Shop also offers a charming courtyard where guests can enjoy classic cocktails along with Creole staples in a relaxed atmosphere. Established in 1948.
Casual & Outdoor Cocktail Stops
1018 Decatur St.
Located near the Riverfront and next door to Café Du Monde and The Market Cafe, Gazebo Cafe is a casual spot for frozen drinks like ice cream daiquiris and live music, making it a fun and easy stop while exploring the always-bustling part of Decatur Street.
… And, You Can Always Take Your Cocktail To Go
One of the unique features of New Orleans is its open-container culture, enjoyed by many a visitor and the locals. Popular spots like Tropical Isle (with five locations throughout the French Quarter) offer daiquiris and hand grenades, and Erin Rose (811 Conti St.) makes an excellent Bloody Marys and frozen Irish coffee, allowing you to stroll through the French Quarter with a drink in hand.
Suggested Walking Cocktail Itinerary in the French Quarter
Speaking of walking, one of the best ways to experience the cocktail culture of New Orleans is by exploring the French Quarter on foot. Most of these destinations are within a few blocks of each other, making it easy to enjoy a relaxed evening of drinks, atmosphere, and historic scenery.
Stop 1: Brennan’s – Start with Elegant Classics
Begin your evening with a high-end cocktail in Brennan’s spacious courtyard. A French 75 or classic champagne cocktail sets a festive tone for the night.
Stop 2: Café Amelie – Garden Charm
Just a short walk away, Café Amelie offers one of the most romantic courtyards in the Quarter. This is a great place to slow down and enjoy a classic cocktail surrounded by lush greenery.
Stop 3: Sylvain – Modern Craft Vibes
Head to Sylvain for creative craft cocktails in a relaxed courtyard setting. Their inventive menu bridges traditional New Orleans flavors with modern mixology.
Stop 4: Jewel of the South – A Serious Cocktail Experience
This award-winning cocktail destination focuses on historically inspired drinks and elegant presentation, making it one of the most memorable stops on the route.
Nightcap: If you’re still exploring, walk toward Bar Tonique for bold craft cocktails or stop at Napoleon House for a laid-back Pimm’s Cup in a historic setting.
Best “Of” Cocktail Spots in the French Quarter
Best for Brunch Cocktails
- Court of Two Sisters – Famous for its jazz brunch and classic mimosas in a historic courtyard.
- Brennan’s – A top choice for brunch cocktails like the Brandy Milk Punch.
- Café Amelie – Ideal for a relaxed brunch with stunning garden seating.
Best for Date Night
- Cane & Table – Romantic tropical courtyard and inventive rum cocktails.
- Bayona – Quiet, upscale courtyard dining with sophisticated drinks.
- Jewel of the South – Elegant atmosphere perfect for a refined evening.
Best for Live Music Atmosphere
- Gazebo Cafe – Casual setting with frequent live jazz and frozen drinks.
- Tropical Isle – Lively Bourbon Street energy and signature daiquiris.
- Muriel’s Jackson Square – Balcony views and nearby street performers enhance the experience.
Best for Classic New Orleans Cocktails
- Peychaud’s – Traditional cocktails crafted with precision.
- Napoleon House – Famous for the Pimm’s Cup in a historic setting.
- The Will & The Way – Modern interpretations of classic drinks.
Best for Craft Cocktail Enthusiasts
- Bar Tonique – One of the city’s most respected craft cocktail bars.
- Jewel of the South – Award-level mixology and presentation.
- Sylvain – Creative cocktails with a relaxed local vibe.
Tips for Planning Your French Quarter Cocktail Walk
- Start early: Courtyard venues are especially enjoyable around sunset.
- Stay hydrated: New Orleans’ climate makes water essential between stops.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The historic streets are best explored on foot.
- Take advantage of to-go drinks: Yes, you are allowed to take your drink with you.
Are you visiting New Orleans soon?
We’d love for you to stay at one of our Valentino hotels! And if you do, consider booking a guided tour of the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans. And, for easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime!
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Where to Score the Best Crawfish in New Orleans
Spring means crawfish season in New Orleans, and that means picking the best spot to enjoy an old-fashioned boil. This list is far from exhaustive — in fact, it’s more like a drop in the bucket — and that’s a good thing. We’re lucky to live in a place where boils happen in bars, restaurants and backyards every day this time of year.
Cajun Seafood
1479 N. Claiborne Ave. (plus three more locations Uptown, Downtown, and New Orleans East)
Cajun Seafood opened its original location on S. Broad Street in 1995 and remains, in the words of many locals, “The best smelling corner in the city” (as the company’s website reminds us). Since then, Cajun Seafood expanded to three more locations (each family-owned and operated), and the one on N. Claiborne is located in Tremé. The counter service spot usually has a wait, sometimes trailing around the outside of the building on Saturday afternoons and during second lines.
Diverse offerings include po-boys, Chinese food, boiled seafood, ya-ka-mein (also spelled as yaka mein — a magical concoction of chopped beef, noodles, green onions, hard-cooked egg, and broth), and fried chicken, as well as varying fresh seafood options. The boil is moderately spicy, with a pleasant clove and garlic flavor. It’s a middle-of-the-road crawfish — a crowd-pleaser.
Captain Sal’s Seafood & Chicken
3168 St. Claude Ave.
Located on St. Claude Avenue in the Bywater, Sal’s sells inexpensive boiled seafood, fried chicken, and po-boys from an inauspicious concrete building. The crawfish are spicy, and that spice carries over into the corn and potatoes for some of the spiciest sides we’ve ever tried.
The crawfish are also buttery and garlicky; they have a particularly rich flavor. As the season progresses, Sal’s offers weekly half-price deals, usually beginning around Easter. There’s plenty of space to sit inside, and there’s counter service. Don’t expect much of a wait here.
Captain Sid’s
1700 Lake Ave., Metairie
Located just down the street from Deanie’s in the heart of Bucktown, Captain Sid’s has been around since 1979. Captain Sid’s specializes in fresh and boiled seafood, plus there’s a deli with cooked items like stuffed crabs, crawfish pies, alligator sausage, the bisques, and the etouffees. The place is no frills, there are no tables, so be ready to take your order to go. The original owner, Sidney “Captain Sid” Patrick, came up with a unique seafood seasoning, and that’s what you’ll be tasting in your crawfish.
Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant
1713 Lake Ave., Metairie; 841 Iverville St., French Quarter
Deanie’s, around since 1961, is an institution and a recognized name in the city known for its great seafood. The original restaurant and seafood market are located in Bucktown in Metairie. There is one more location in the French Quarter. Both are perfect for dining in.
Mid-City Seafood and Deli
2526 St. Bernard Ave.
This Seventh Ward spot near the corner of St. Bernard Ave. and Broad St. is known for its boiled seafood and fried chicken. The boil has strong hints of clove, and deep, delicious flavor as well as a mild, lingering heat. It’s counter service only — but you come for the food, not the atmosphere. The po-boys are numerous, well-priced, and also well regarded.
Salvo’s Seafood
7742 Highway 23, Belle Chase
It’s a bit of a trek, but Salvo’s offers delicious boiled seafood at better prices than most restaurants in the city. Their all-you-can-eat seafood specials rotate nightly between crab, shrimp, and crawfish, but crawfish is consistently available by the pound as well during season.
The full-service restaurant has been open since 1984, and also offers sandwiches, steaks and ribs, though most people come for the boiled and fried seafood specials. The all-you-can-eat boiled seafood specials also include all-you-can-eat boiled sides.
Boils at Bars
Crawfish can be found at bars around the city in the spring. The R Bar in the Marigny often doles out crawfish, and the Maple Leaf Bar is known for its boil helmed by Jason Seither (of Seither’s Seafood), which offers a unique boil with carrots, garlic, and sweet potato, among other unusual vegetables sometimes added to the pot. The 24-hour Three Legged Dog in the French Quarter also has weekly boils, and the Mid-City’s Bayou Beer Garden throws an occasional boil on its spacious back patio, during the Saints games in particular.
Are you planning to spend some time in New Orleans this spring? This is a great time to visit as the temps get higher and the city’s schedule is full of fun events and the annual spring festivals. To stay close to all the action, book a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter at FrenchQuarter.com/hotels today!
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Picnicking Along the Mississippi River This Summer
Summer in New Orleans brings warm breezes, longer days, and the perfect excuse to enjoy the outdoors — yes, despite all the heat and humidity. Whether you’re packing a homemade picnic basket or picking up local favorites like po-boys and fried chicken, the Riverfront offers some of the city’s most picturesque and relaxing spots to dine al fresco.
The Fly (Audubon Riverview Park)
From sprawling levees and oak-shaded lawns to scenic promenades with a view, here are the top places to enjoy a picnic by the Mississippi River in New Orleans this summer.
Tucked behind the Audubon Zoo Uptown, The Fly, officially known as Audubon Riverview Park, is a beloved picnic destination for locals. Sitting high on the levee, it offers expansive green space, sweeping views of the Mississippi River, and a relaxed vibe perfect for tossing a frisbee, walking your dog, reading under a tree, or simply watching the barges float by.
What makes The Fly extra special is its combination of natural beauty and urban charm. Spread out a blanket under the shade of a tree or take in a sunset as tugboats drift past. Grab a po-boy from nearby Domilise’s, a wood-fired pizza from Pizza Domenica, or some cold drinks and snacks from a local deli. With ample space and plenty of fresh air, it’s a picnic go-to for families, students, and couples alike.
Audubon Park
Just a short walk from The Fly is Audubon Park, a serene and sprawling greenspace that provides both open lawns and deeply shaded spots under centuries-old oak trees. It’s an Uptown gem, offering peace and quiet even in the heart of the city.
The park’s “Riverview” section along the river is especially ideal for a summer picnic. Whether you’re fueling up after a jog or meeting friends for a relaxing afternoon, Audubon Park’s scenic paths, benches, and open fields provide the perfect setting.
Before you head over, stop by Picnic Provisions & Whiskey or Stein’s Market & Deli to pick up gourmet sandwiches, charcuterie, a hoagie, or a chilled salad. Bring a blanket or use the park’s built-in picnic tables, and enjoy one of the most peaceful outdoor experiences in the city.
Crescent Park
For those who love urban scenery with its greenery, Crescent Park is a must. This 1.4-mile linear park along the Riverfront in the Bywater connects to the French Market and stretches all the way to the Marigny. With walking trails, picnic tables, native gardens, and shaded benches, it’s a modern outdoor space that blends nature with striking views of the New Orleans skyline and the mighty Mississippi.
At Crescent Park, you’ll find ample space to lay out a picnic blanket or settle into a shaded area. Watching the sun set behind the city’s bridges is an unforgettable way to end a summer evening.
Nearby food options include local haunts like The Joint for barbecue or Satsuma Café for light fare and juices. Whether you’re here for a romantic date or a family-friendly outing, the park’s accessible design and bike-friendly paths make it easy to enjoy.
The Batture
The Batture is a newly reimagined 10-acre space along the Mississippi River in Uptown New Orleans, where an old industrial site is being transformed into a welcoming destination for the public. Once home to the Bisso Marine salvage yard, this part of the riverfront has been off-limits for over a century. Now, it’s being opened up as a lively, green area where the community can reconnect with the river.
This new space is meant to feel distinctly New Orleans — casual, social, and tied to the rhythm of the river. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic at dusk, relaxing with a drink after biking the levee, or grabbing a bite with friends on the lawn, The Batture invites people to slow down and soak in the view. It’s a place for neighbors and families to gather, with a mix of open green space and local businesses that reflect the city’s charm and creativity.
You’ll find The Batture just steps from Audubon Park and The Fly, located between Walnut and Lowerline Streets. It’s easily reached via the levee from Leake Avenue. While nearby favorites like Broadway Beach and the levee dog park remain unchanged, The Batture adds something fresh to the neighborhood — a blend of restaurants, retail, office space, and wide-open lawns designed for enjoying the river in a relaxed, community-focused setting.
The first renovated buildings now house The Rigs Workspace, with a coffee shop and bar underway. Full-service restaurant spaces are also in the works. In the meantime, expect pop-up events, food trucks, and seasonal programming.
The Rigs Workspace is open daily to its members. For the public, The Batture is open Friday afternoons and evenings from 3 to 9 p.m., and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Crescent City Farmers Market is now open at The Batture every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to noon.
Please note that dogs are welcome but must stay leashed, and outside drinks are allowed, but no outside food.
Are you planning to spend some time in New Orleans soon? To stay close to all the action, book a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter at FrenchQuarter.com/hotels today!
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French Quarter Dining Al Fresco
Photo courtesy of Louisiana Pizza Kitchen on Facebook
Despite its steamy reputation, the weather in New Orleans for most of the year is actually quite mild and pleasant. Winter days and summer nights and mornings often feel just as spring-like as an April afternoon.
With this abundance of great weather comes the ability and the desire to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Al fresco dining combines casual-to-fine dining with a Sunday afternoon picnic vibe, and the French Quarter has many restaurants and cafes that offer a breath of fresh air.
Mornings in the Quarter are filled with locals tending to their hanging gardens and shopkeepers preparing for the first customers of the day. Take a leisurely stroll to the Lower Quarter and visit the Croissant D’Or Patisserie, a charming European-style pastry shop with extremely reasonable prices. Enjoy fresh coffee, pastries, soups, salads, sandwiches, and quiches in a quiet courtyard or the shop’s tiled, old-world dining room.
Is it lunchtime? Louisiana Pizza Kitchen sits just steps outside of the French Market, with sunny sidewalk tables offering a welcome break from sightseeing and bargain hunting. Gourmet, wood-fired pizza is the specialty here, with ingredients such as sun-dried tomatoes, barbecue chicken, banana peppers, Portobello mushrooms, and even shrimp topping the unbleached flour or whole wheat crusts. Traditional toppings are also available for the less adventurous, as well as a large selection of appetizers, wood-fired sandwiches, fresh salads, and creative pasta dishes.
For those who prefer gumbo to gourmet, the Gumbo Shop offers all of the New Orleans favorites such as jambalaya, red beans and rice, crawfish etouffee, blackened fish, po-boys, and, of course, several varieties of gumbo. This busy restaurant has a small courtyard for dining outside of the packed main dining room, and prices are reasonable. Lunch is usually less crowded than dinner, and the central French Quarter location makes an easy mid-day stop during sightseeing or shopping.
Dinner in the French Quarter is superb cuisine served in historic and charming surroundings. Muriel’s Jackson Square offers these things and more in an opulently restored townhouse complete with balcony dining. French doors open the restaurant to Jackson Square, just steps away.
Watch the French Quarter go by while enjoying dishes such as seafood gumbo, crawfish and goat cheese crepes, and wood-grilled selections such as filet mignon plus seasonal vegetables. For dessert, the vanilla bean crème brûlée is a standout (while there are some mainstays and the favorites, the menu changes, so these are just samples the restaurant had offered in the past).
Bayona Restaurant is also located in a beautifully renovated French Quarter home, but the surroundings are more intimate. Several small dining rooms and a romantic courtyard are available for dining on Chef Susan Spicer’s creations. The menu is subject to change, but expect impeccably executed Southern classics like grilled Gulf shrimp and sweetbreads.
Up on Decatur Street, towards the “bottom” of the Quarter and the beginning of the Marigny, Cane & Table serves Caribbean-inspired small and large plates and excellent cocktails, all deliverable in one of the Quarter’s great courtyards, a tropical-chic delight that makes us want to sip a negroni or a frozen paloma.
Whether it be a sunny spring morning, breezy fall afternoon, or warm summer night, the French Quarter offers a bounty of al fresco dining options. The above suggestions are only the beginning — on almost every block, you will find both quaint cafés and elegant bistros offering a chance to dine and soak up the classic Quarter atmosphere while actually becoming a part of it at a street-side table or balcony.
Explore all the Quarter has to offer and find a favorite of your own!
Are you planning to spend some time in New Orleans soon? To stay close to all the action, book a historic boutique hotel in the French Quarter at FrenchQuarter.com/hotels today!
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Things to Do in New Orleans This April
Photo by David Fary
April is one of our favorite months in New Orleans. Between the usually warm winters and super-hot summers, April sits in the New Orleans climatic sweet spot. It’s sunny, and you can wear shorts on most days, but it’s not impossibly hot yet. Come evening, when the thermometer starts to dip into the 70s, the air feels something like perfect.
Then there are the festivals, of course. In New Orleans, April is considered the start of the festival season, which lasts from now into the dog days of summer. On almost every weekend (and during the mid-week as well), you’ll find outdoor concerts, parties, live performances, and general revelry just dripping out of the city.
Plus, spring just brings out the love in people. Folks get down, hang out, and are just that much more at ease. In a city nicknamed the Big Easy (you’ll never catch us using that term, but we accept it is a title New Orleans must live with), that’s saying something.
Oh, there’s one other great thing about April: crawfish. Sure, they’re usually in season by March, but April is when the boils really start becoming a common sight citywide.
Here’s how we do April.
Photo courtesy of YLC Wednesday at the Square on Facebook
Wednesday at the Square
Free music? Good weather? Food stalls? Good folks? All this and more at Wednesday at the Square in downtown New Orleans, which continues for 10 weeks from March 11 through May 6, 2026. The concert series kicks off in Lafayette Square; music lasts from 5 to 8 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Crescent City Classic on Facebook
Crescent City Classic
This annual 10K run is one of the largest athletic events in New Orleans, partly because the race is open to all, and as a result tends to attract a wide swathe of runners, from casual beginners to world-class runners (many don a costume to run, this being New Orleans). You do have to register to run; the cost is $70 ($50 if you run for a charity). The price increases after February 20, 2026.
Crescent City Classic is also notable for its route, which takes in some of the best cityscapes New Orleans has to offer. Runners take off from downtown in front of the Superdome, run through the French Quarter and the Tremé, then up Esplanade Avenue — one of the most beautiful streets in the nation — all the way to City Park.
If you’re around on the day of the run (Saturday, April 4, 2026), you’ll likely see crowds lining the route, but try not to drive anywhere near the running path, as roads will be blocked off.
Photo by David Fary
Easter Parades
New Orleans is one of the most Catholic cities in the country, and it celebrates Easter in a big way, although that celebration isn’t always as traditional as one might guess. Long story short: When the 40-day Lent period of fasting ends, New Orleans says, “OK, that was enough self-denial” and throws three big parades. Why? Because New Orleans.
Starting at 11 a.m. on Easter Sunday (Sunday, April 5, 2026) with a hat contest and entertainment at the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel Ballroom, the French Quarter Easter Parade winds its way from there and back starting at 1 p.m. via classic convertible cars and mule-drawn carriages.
The Chris Owens French Quarter Easter Parade is celebrating its 41st anniversary this year. Because it is now prohibited to parade on Bourbon Street (due to the terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve in 2024), the parade route changed last year, and the details for 2026 are still being ironed out.
The final parade of the day is the Gay Easter Parade, which rolls at 4:30 p.m. This one is also a family-friendly affair, and has been a long-standing tradition of the New Orleans LGBTQ+ community.
The paraders will march with floats and horse-drawn carriages, rolling by many of the French Quarter’s most storied gay businesses. Bring the kids to this one, as the Gay Easter Parade is famous for its generous throws and elaborate costuming.
Image courtesy of Hogs for the Cause on Facebook
Hogs for the Cause
Hogs for the Cause is back on Friday-Saturday, April 10-11, 2026, featuring more than 90 teams competing for the coveted BBQ Pork Grand Champion title. This signature festival blends live music, great food, and time with family and friends, all while supporting an extraordinary mission. The event is held at the UNO Lakefront Arena (6801 Franklin Ave.). Expect more than 20 bands (this year’s lineup), and all things BBQ.
In its 18th year, so far Hogs has given back more than $15 million, providing over 2,200 direct grants to families battling pediatric brain cancer and contributing millions more to hospital programs and on-campus housing at children’s hospitals. You can get tickets here.
Bag of Donuts by David Fary
French Quarter Fest
French Quarter Festival is the largest free musical event in the New Orleans calendar, and according to organizers, the largest free music festival in the USA. For many, it has become a less crowded, less expensive alternative to the Jazz & Heritage Festival.
With that said, it’s not really fair to describe French Quarter Fest in relation to Jazz Fest. French Quarter Fest stands strongly on its own merits, rocking the city with a fantastic lineup of musicians and an unbeatable setting.
That setting is, as you may have guessed from the name, the French Quarter itself. Unlike so many music festivals around the world, French Quarter Fest eschews a huge grassy space for city streets. And in this case, said streets run through one of the world’s architectural preservation treasures. The festival goes off during the second weekend of April (Thursday-Sunday, April 16-19, 2026), which tends to come with gorgeous weather.
Despite featuring about 20 stages and a staggering number of acts and food vendors, the fest is fairly easy to navigate. Here’s our guide on how to get the most out of the French Quarter Festival if you feel overwhelmed.
Crawfest
One of the surest signs of spring in New Orleans is the presence of crawfish on menus and at boils across the city, and one of the surest signs that crawfish are back in season is Crawfest. Held on Saturday, April 18, this year, this party, sponsored by Tulane University, features some 20,000 pounds of crawfish, thousands of pounds of vegetables, two main stages, a bunch of bands, and a heavy student presence.
With that said, all are welcome — it costs $20 to get in, and kids 12 and under enter for free. (The fest is also free to Tulane students, with a wristband.) Crawfest kicks off on Tulane’s campus in Uptown, New Orleans.
Photo by David Fary
Jazz Fest
The biggest music festival in the best music city in the USA is one of the marquee events of the New Orleans calendar. For the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May (April 23 – May 3, 2026), the city hosts hundreds of bands and thousands of tourists, who stream into the Fair Grounds Race Course from around the world.
Dozens of food vendors will show off the best of local cuisine, while artisans create and trade Louisiana crafts. On the days between the weekends, some of the world’s great musicians will be partying (and often, playing) all around the city.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a giant event, and in some ways, all of the bands, shows, and sheer entertainment options can feel intimidating. Yet once you find your favorite stage and preferred food vendors, and sit down with a cold drink and the breeze blowing across the Fair Grounds, it can also be very intimate — a means of annually connecting to New Orleans at a deep level that is exacerbated by the warm spring sun of April. For some tips, check out our First-Timer’s Guide to the New Orleans Jazz Fest.
If you’re planning a stay in New Orleans, be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels.
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Mother’s Day in the French Quarter and Nearby
New Orleans and the French Quarter in particular are fantastic options for Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10, 2026), from the elegant perfection of jazz brunches and the relaxing stroll on the scenic Mississippi Riverfront to exploring the magnificent architecture of the centuries-old streets and shopping in the chic local boutiques. Show your appreciation for the mothers in your life with these suggestions. Just please remember to make your reservations in advance, as Mother’s Day is a popular time for brunching and dining.
Brunch
Brunch with Mom is one of New Orleans’ most popular Mother’s Day activities. Not only do the French Quarter and the adjacent Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods have some of the best restaurants in the country, but several have excellent Mother’s Day special brunch offers.
Broussard’s Mother’s Day jazz brunch is usually held in the courtyard and features the restaurant’s classic French Creole cuisine plus bottomless rosé or mimosas. (To make a reservation, call 504-581-3866 or book online.) The classic Sunday jazz brunch at either Antoine’s or Arnaud’s is elegance personified and is a perfect way to give back to the women and mothers in your life.
The French Quarter has some of the best European-style patisseries in the country, so if you want a classic French croissant or quiche, head to Croissant D’Or Patisserie.
Outside the Quarter, if you’re up for a scenic walk or ride through the historic neighborhood of the Marigny, check out Ayu Bakehouse, a bright, quaint corner shop with a mellow vibe. There are savory pastries, crusty baguettes, sweet croissants, cookies, and buns, plus breakfast and lunch items like a frittata and seasonally rotated sandwiches.
Still further down, in the Bywater, you can hit The Country Club’s brunch of gluten-free shrimp and grits, or boudin boulettes in the restaurant, or just head to the pool that has its own poolside menu. There’s also a very popular drag brunch at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (it sells out quickly, so a reservation is a must).
Exploring the French Quarter on foot
Few cities in the world have as much easily accessible and well-preserved architecture as New Orleans. If your mom is up for walking, explore the centuries-old streets of the French Quarter and the nearby mostly residential Marigny to take in all the magnificent architectural elements they have to offer, with all their lush tropical courtyards with gurgling fountains, French doors, stucco exteriors, lacy Victorian ironwork, and vibrant Caribbean colors.
While you’re at it, you can stroll the mile-long Riverfront with its walkway called the Moonwalk, the scenic views of the Mississippi River, and Woldenberg Park.
Don’t miss the French Market across the street, from its food stands to the daily flea market at the end of Esplanade Avenue. It’s a great stop to slurp a dozen raw oysters, or pick up pralines and a beignet mix to take home from any of the surrounding retail shops.
Just down the street is one of the most important national landmarks, the timeless Jackson Square, with Andrew Jackson’s bronze statue as the focal point of the square, surrounded by lush greenery. Come inside the St. Louis Cathedral that overlooks the square, to take in its stunning interior, or shop at the block-long rows of the Pontalba Buildings that flank the square in both directions.
Jackson Square also features an open-air artist market and performance space, with local art displayed along the fence. While there, browse the art, dance to a brass band, have your fortune told, or have a sketch done on the spot.
Taking a carriage ride
If your mom is not up for walking, unveiling the city’s colorful past is as easy as taking a mule-drawn carriage ride through the streets of the French Quarter. Just grab a first-come-first-served French Quarter Mule Tour offered by Royal Carriages on Decatur Street right outside the Jackson Square gate, from 8 a.m. through midnight daily. Some tour packages stick to the Quarter only; others venture out to the Marigny or St. Louis Cemetery #1.
Shopping
Besides what the French Market and the shops surrounding Jackson Square have to offer, you can head down to the chic boutiques lining Chartres Street, branching off the square and leading to Canal Street.
One of the most popular destinations on the Chartres Street retail row is Hemline, which carries a well-curated shoe and women’s fashion collection from local and national brands. Also on Chartres, the well-hidden United Apparel Liquidators (UAL) is unsurpassed for hunting name brands with deep discounts (and even some haute couture). And, if you head to Canal Street, there’s a slew of upscale retailers at The Shops at Canal Place.
Dining
It’s going to be easy to impress your mom with dozens of stunning options in the French Quarter and nearby. You’ll be in good hands at the enchanting Sylvain on Chartres Street, with a candlelit bar and a lovely patio. The charming Bayona also offers a patio, along with a historic setting of a two-century-old Creole cottage on a quiet block of Dauphine Street.
If you want to go with the upscale Creole cuisine in unbeatable locations, then Tujague’s, Napoleon House, or Muriel’s Jackson Square won’t steer you wrong. For something less traditional but still sophisticated, head to Cane & Table for a top-notch cocktail and small plates, or hit the hole-in-the-wall Cuban gem, Manolito. Of course, the one and only Galatoire’s needs no introduction (where you’ll be lucky to get a table).
Finally, why not wrap up with a glass of bubbly and the world-famous Bananas Foster in a lush courtyard at Brennan’s, flambeed tableside? Giving back to your mom has never been easier.
Coming to New Orleans this spring?
Check out our guide to where to stay in the French Quarter, and be sure to check out our resource for French Quarter Hotels. Also, consider booking a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans.
For easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime, and your mom won’t have to do all this walking!
Happy Mother’s Day!
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Things to Do in New Orleans This March
With March upon us, expect a good slate of early-spring activities in the Crescent City. Also, the weather is warmer — hopefully just pleasantly warmer — the kind of spring sunshine that equals t-shirts and jeans, if not shorts.
Mainly, we consider this time of year an awesome window when the Carnival wraps up (or, depending on the year, is over) and the festival season is yet to begin. This is that rare time when the city settles for a very slight breather between its biggest parties and still means there’s a ton of stuff to do. Here are the highlights.
New Orleans Entrepreneur Week
Monday-Saturday, March 9-14, 2026
The New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) kicks off six days of speeches, speaker sessions, and networking events on Monday, March 9, 2026. According to the event organizers, one of the main events is the NOEW 2026 Summit at Loyola (Thursday-Friday, March 12–13), which “packs in two days of immersive workshops, hands-on sessions, and real founder stories designed to help you start, scale — and connect.” NOEW is now in its 15th year and has attracted thousands of attendees over the years. For this year’s keynote speakers and more info, check out the event’s website.
Wednesday at the Square Concert Series
Wednesdays, March 11 through May 6, 2026
Unwind with a cold beverage on any given Wednesday at the Square, a free concert music series held in the spring in Lafayette Park (located one block off of Poydras Street, between St. Charles Avenue and Camp Street in the heart of the Central Business District) every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. From March through May (March 11 – May 7, 2026), these outdoor concerts feature a variety of jazz, rock, swamp pop, brass, Latin rhythms, and more.
Bring a chair or a blanket, or head to the front of the stage to partake in some dancing. You can bring your dog (as long as your pet is on the leash at all times), and there are vendor booths surrounding the park where you can buy food and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (no outside food or beverages, please).
The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane
Thursday-Sunday, March 12-15, 2026
The New Orleans Book Festival features both fiction and non-fiction and readings, panel discussions, symposia, and keynote speeches. It also provides an opportunity for outlets, authors, and readers to interact with each other. Sunday, March 15, is Family Day, so bring your kids to the Tulane campus for some fun. Previous year’s notable authors and speakers on the impressive roster included Andy Borowitz, Richard Campanella, Maureen Dowd, and many more — so expect A-list greatness this year as well. The festival is free and open to the public.
St. Patrick’s Day
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
It sometimes comes as a surprise to first-time visitors to New Orleans that this city has a deep Irish heritage, which traces back to its history as a Catholic port of call that was one of the main entry points for the USA. There’s an entire neighborhood in this town called the Irish Channel, plus a plethora of fantastic pubs that eschew cheesy emerald-green Irish stereotypes for rough-hewn hospitality (Finn McCool’s and Erin Rose come to mind, plus a selection of our favorite Irish pubs in the French Quarter).
As such, there are plenty of Irish in this town, and thus, the weekend closest to St. Patrick’s Day is an important one for the city of New Orleans. Numerous parades kick off, including the massive Irish Channel parade (on Saturday, March 14, 2026), where float riders pass cabbages to the screaming crowds (among many other parade-specific throws).
The Downtown Irish Club Parade rolls on St. Patrick’s Day, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from the Bywater to the French Quarter, making several pit stops on its way to Bourbon Street.
How much you enjoy all of the above is linked to your tolerance for public drinking and green beer. St. Patrick’s Day in New Orleans is not quite as kid-friendly as the Carnival — you’ll still see families, but these parades are more aimed at adults.
Super Sunday
Sunday, March 15, 2026
The annual gathering of the Mardi Gras Indian tribes is perhaps the most open means of accessing this unique element of New Orleans backstreet culture. The tribes will be out in large numbers on Super Sunday, which usually falls on the third Sunday of March.
While the Mardi Gras Indians have their set routes and parade areas, no one event packs the tribes into one public space like Super Sunday. In this case, said public spaces are A.L. Davis Park, at the corner of Washington and LaSalle streets; and Bayou St. John in Mid-City, at the intersection of Orleans and Moss streets, on the bayou’s banks and the Orleans Street bridge. The Indian procession usually leaves the gathering spot around 1 p.m.
We can’t stress this enough: Be respectful if you go. Take pictures at a distance, and don’t get in the way of marching Indians or their friends, family, and attached bands. Super Sunday has been overrun with spectators in the past years, so please do your part to enjoy this amazing cultural event responsibly.
Some background: The Mardi Gras Indians are the most vibrant, visible, and conversely mysterious expressions of African-American New Orleans culture. To distill them into an extremely simplistic sentence: Mardi Gras Indians are African-American New Orleanians who dress up (or, in local lingo, ”mask”) as stylized Native Americans.
They take to the streets in fantastic costumes made of beads, feathers, and sequins that cost thousands of dollars, weigh hundreds of pounds, and require hundreds of days of painstaking labor; no element of costume creation is automated.
On Mardi Gras Day, Super Sunday, St. Joseph’s Day, and a select few other special occasions, the “chiefs” and their tribes parade through the city, chanting, shouting, and challenging each other to determine who is “the prettiest.”
There’s a ton more background on this fascinating subject at the Backstreet Cultural Museum in the historic Tremé neighborhood.
New Orleans French Film Festival
Thursday-Tuesday, March 19-24, 2026
Per its organizers, the New Orleans French Film Festival “is one of the longest-running international language festivals in the U.S., celebrating contemporary and classic Francophone cinema.” In its 29th year in 2026, the festival runs various events, including the Prytania Theatre Uptown and other venues across the city. For this year’s lineup, schedule, and ticket info, please check the festival’s website.
Danny Barker Banjo & Guitar Festival
Friday-Sunday, March 20-29, 2026
The Danny Barker Banjo + Guitar Festival pays homage to New Orleanian musician, writer, instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, and lyricist Danny Barker. The 10-day festival features a mixture of programming, including live music performances, panel discussions and workshops, special events and outings, second lines, and more. It will be held at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. There is also a Golf Tournament on Friday, March 20, which is a fundraiser to support the Daniel Moses Barker Foundation.
Tennessee Williams Literary Festival
Wednesday-Sunday, March 25-29, 2026
Writers have always been drawn to New Orleans. Few cities in America (or the world, really) can match this town for its atmosphere, sense of place, or penchant for fun and pathos (all good elements of a writing life).
The Tennessee Williams Literary Festival celebrates this city’s love affair with the written word, as well as writers’ love affair with New Orleans. Notable authors will be in attendance, hosting seminars, workshops, and lectures.
Plus, this being the Tennessee Williams Festival, there is, of course, a “Stella” shouting contest, which involves folks screaming out the iconic scene from A Streetcar Named Desire to appreciative crowds on Jackson Square. The program will also include a scholar conference, walking tours, masterclasses, theater, and more.
Note that on Friday-Sunday, March 27-29, 2026, the city will also host the Saints & Sinners Literary Festival, an alternative literary event that celebrates LGBTQ+ authors. The three-day festival will include panel discussions and a fair amount of networking opportunities between authors, editors, and publishers.
Congo Square Rhythms Festival
Saturday-Sunday, March 28-29, 2026
The musical heritage of New Orleans follows a line that can be traced all the way back to Africa, where the black diaspora begins. The music of that continent evolved here and in the Caribbean, influenced by Europe and indigenous music, into the forms and traditions that are the core of today’s New Orleans sound.
This vital legacy is celebrated in Armstrong Park, on the grounds of Congo Square, where local slaves were once permitted to practice the musical traditions of Africa and the Caribbean. Congo Square Rhythms Festival is a celebration of global and local music, and offers both amazing food and a fantastic lineup of music. The festival kickoff concert is typically held on Friday.
Presented by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, the festival features Mardi Gras Indians, African dance, brass bands, soul-funk, as well as indigenous music of Honduras, and highlife from West Africa. The large art market and a Soul Food Court complete the experience.
Don’t miss one of the fest’s highlights, the Mardi Gras Indian “battle” — when the tribes gather in the center of the square, plus the festival’s largest to date assemblage of New Orleans-based African dance troupes (they typically perform on Sunday). At the time of this writing, the lineup hasn’t been released.
Are you visiting New Orleans this spring?
We’d love for you to stay at one of our Valentino hotels! And if you do, consider booking a guided tour of the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans. And, for easy, informative sightseeing, we recommend the City Sightseeing New Orleans city tour on the open-top, double-decker bus. It runs every 30 minutes through the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD. You can hop on and off anytime!
Happy Spring!
